Norwich City 2 Leeds United 1: Memorable send-off on an emotional day for Hoolahan

Norwich manager Daniel Farke was delighted to see Wes Hoolahan sign off at Carrow Road in memorable fashion as the Canaries rounded off an indifferent home campaign with a 2-1 win over Leeds.
Canaries' Wes Hoolahan tangles with Samuel Saiz. PIC: Tony JohnsonCanaries' Wes Hoolahan tangles with Samuel Saiz. PIC: Tony Johnson
Canaries' Wes Hoolahan tangles with Samuel Saiz. PIC: Tony Johnson

Hoolahan took centre stage in his final home appearance for the club by scoring Norwich’s first goal before setting up what proved to the winner for Josh Murphy.

“If I had to a paint a picture of how Wes’ career for Norwich would finish that would have been it,” said the Norwich boss. “He scored a goal, got an assist and put in an excellent performance, and, of course, we won the game, which I know was his main target.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“He went out there and showed, at nearly 36, that he could still have a big influence on a Championship game - it’s not just the ability, it’s the passion as well.

Norwich City manager Daniel Farke. PIC: Chris Radburn/PA WireNorwich City manager Daniel Farke. PIC: Chris Radburn/PA Wire
Norwich City manager Daniel Farke. PIC: Chris Radburn/PA Wire

“It was a very emotional moment when we took him off near the end. The players all came over to wish him well, the crowd were on their feet, and I can tell you a few tears were shed.

“In fact it has been emotional all week – and it was still like that when I left the dressing room. I am sure it is a day Wes will never forget. He has had a great career at Norwich City – and for his final game to be like this was well deserved.”

Hoolahan has yet to decide on his next career move, but Farke expects him to keep on playing: “I always tell players to carry on as long as they can, providing they can still perform at a good level. Wes can certainly do that and he is also in really good shape.

Farke added: “He is now going to spend some time with his family but I sure he will playing somewhere next season.”