Sargent Returns in FA Cup Defeat

Striker Subbed on For First Action Since October

Josh Sargent made his long-awaited return to action for Norwich City, coming off the bench in the 79th minute during their FA Cup defeat to Brighton at Carrow Road. The American striker had been sidelined since early November after undergoing groin surgery, missing 14 Championship matches during his absence.

Prior to the match, Norwich manager Johannes Hoff Thorup had urged patience with Sargent's reintegration, emphasizing the careful approach taken with his rehabilitation. "The expectation is always a little bit difficult for a player to just come in again after eight weeks and be able to perform on the highest level. That will probably take some time," Thorup explained while noting Sargent's strong physical condition could help accelerate his return to form.

Though Norwich ultimately fell to Brighton's Premier League quality in a comprehensive defeat, Sargent showed promising signs in his brief cameo appearance. Sargent's return provides a significant boost to Norwich's attacking options after relying heavily on young Ante Crnac, whom Sargent replaced, during his absence. Also, Norwich City's leading scorer Borja Sainz is in the middle of a six-match ban so Sargent's availability comes at an opportune time for the promotion-chasing Canaries, who had won three of their last four matches before this cup tie.