Amid a League One summer transfer window dominated by the financial might of Birmingham City, Stockport County’s signing of Ollie Norwood may have slipped under the radar.
However, it’s quickly proving to be a shrewd move. The 33-year-old midfielder, who played a pivotal role in Sheffield United’s two promotions, found himself out of favour at Bramall Lane after Paul Heckingbottom’s sacking and Chris Wilder’s return. With only four appearances under Wilder, Norwood parted ways with The Blades after their relegation from the Premier League.
Now a free agent, Norwood quickly trialled with Stockport County and soon earned a permanent spot at Edgeley Park. The former Huddersfield Town midfielder, who has also represented Northern Ireland internationally, spoke about his decision to join Stockport in an interview with Sky Sports’ Dan Long. Norwood said: “The security of a three-year deal is one thing, but there are other factors: I live locally and I’ve got a young family who I’ve dragged around the country in the past, so it’s about settling down.”
He added, “The biggest factor for me – and I genuinely mean this – is the ambition of the owner, where he sees the football club going and what he wants to achieve.”
Norwood Thriving in Stockport’s Ambitious Environment
Norwood’s comments reflect his excitement to contribute to a team with high aspirations. He’s been impressed with the team environment and the club’s ambition. “I’ve really enjoyed being back in an environment with a team. It’s really exciting as a senior player to come in and help. Hopefully, I can do my bit, pass on little bits of knowledge, and we can all be successful together.”
Dave Challinor’s side, the reigning League Two champions, have had a strong start in their League One campaign, sitting sixth after nine matches, with only one loss to Leyton Orient. Norwood has featured in seven games since joining the club in August, already surpassing his minutes under Wilder at Sheffield United. While he started in his first three appearances, he has since transitioned to more of a rotational role, notably being an unused substitute in their recent clash against Wigan Athletic.
Stockport’s next fixture is against Charlton Athletic, who recently ended Birmingham’s unbeaten run. Norwood’s experience could be crucial in such challenging matches.
Culture and Ambition Driving Stockport County Forward
Norwood has praised the culture at Stockport County, noting the club’s attention to detail and its high standards. “The way we play, the way we set up, and the details that are given to the players is at as high a level as anything I’ve been involved with,” Norwood explained.
“We’re doing everything right, it’s just a case of finding that balance – not getting too carried away when we win and, when we lose, asking where we can be better. That means nit-picking at times, but it’s got to be like that to drive the standards. To get where we want to get to, everybody’s got to be all in.”
Our View
It was unfortunate to see Oliver Norwood’s career at Sheffield United end the way it did. Having been a crucial figure during his time in the Steel City, being sidelined during such a critical period as last season’s relegation battle must have been difficult. However, Stockport County have offered him a fresh start, and the club is on the rise. They’ve exceeded expectations in League One so far, solidifying themselves as play-off contenders.
Norwood is undoubtedly a player with the quality to compete in higher leagues, and although his playing time has been limited, it’s a testament to the squad depth Dave Challinor has built. With talented midfielders like Will Collar, Callum Camps, Nick Powell, and Lewis Bate also in the mix, Norwood’s rotational role is understandable. Injuries and squad rotation will ensure that Norwood’s presence remains valuable throughout the season. With two years left on his deal, it’s likely that Norwood will continue to contribute to Stockport’s ambitions, no matter what league they find themselves in next season.
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