George Long ready to answer Norwich City's keeper call

The Canaries' deputy shot-stopper made his first start since November in their 1-1 draw with Stoke due to Gunn's side strain and is expected to fill the position for at least the next two fixtures as the number one continues his recovery. 

Long's professionalism and personality have won him plenty of plaudits inside the camp, with Johannes Hoff Thorup speaking glowingly about his contribution since his arrival at the club in the summer. 

The experienced keeper has explained the importance of preparation as he seeks to hit the ground running during his run of matches between the sticks. 

"It's great to be back in. It's nice to start again in the Championship, and I enjoyed it. I'm looking forward to the next few weeks, with plenty of games to come," Long said after his first league start since November. 

"I've played a lot of games in my career, so when it comes, I am always ready for it. Tony Roberts (goalkeeping coach) is big on being ready at all times, whether that is coming on at half-time or knowing that I'm starting.

"It's about having the right mentality. Being on the bench and not playing, you cannot take your foot off the gas. At any given moment - an injury or sending off - it can change quickly.

"I am always ready whether I'm playing or not, so when I do step onto the pitch, I'm ready to perform.

"Every goalkeeper wants to play; it's just about working as hard as I can every day in training and waiting for an opportunity."

George Long made his first Championship start since November in the 1-1 draw at Stoke. (Image: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd) Long displayed positive signs with his sweeper capabilities and distribution during Saturday's 1-1 draw at Stoke and is enjoying life under Thorup. 

"I've played under loads of managers in my career, but I'm really enjoying this style of play," he said. "We build from the back, transition quickly, and the aim is not just to keep the ball for the sake of it but to get to the other end as quickly as possible.

"We break lines quickly, and we're not afraid to turn it in behind to shake things up and keep the opposition guessing. I think the fans are really enjoying the style of play, and we, as players, are as well."