---
source: thedugout.football
generated: 2026-07-27T11:49:00.237Z
last_updated: 2026-07-27T05:00:00+00:00
data_provider: API-Football
canonical: https://thedugout.football/clubs/norwich-city/news/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZWRwMjQuY28udWsvc3BvcnQvMjY0MTA5NjQuY2FuLXZhdGFuLW96Y2FuLWZvcmNlLXdheS1ub3J3aWNoLWNpdHlzLWxiLXBsYW5zLz9yZWY9cnNz
---

# Ozcan taking strides as City left-back search continues

- **Source:** 
- **Published:** 27 Jul
- **Club:** Norwich City
- **Original URL:** https://www.edp24.co.uk/sport/26410964.can-vatan-ozcan-force-way-norwich-citys-lb-plans/?ref=rss

Vatan Ozcan is doing all he can to put his name in the hat for a spot in Norwich City’s left-back race, and Ben Chrisene believes it was just a matter of time until opportunity knocked for the teenager.

The Turkish youth international has been involved in Philippe Clement's senior group throughout pre-season, with Lucien Mahovo's injury providing him an extended run to stake his claim with little pressure.

City are expected to sign a new option to provide competition to Ben Chrisene, but Ozcan has shown he is one of their shining lights in the academy. Norwich's priority in the short term is to keep him, amid strong transfer interest from Turkey.

Chrisene hasn't been surprised that Ozcan has impressed and, even if this season comes too early, believes the youngster should be proud of his performances in recent weeks.

"I was surprised he didn't get a chance last season because last pre-season, I think a few of the fans saw him and he played well then," Chrisene told the Pink Un.

"He's done it again now, and it's good, and he needs to just keep doing it. The more games he plays, the more confident he'll feel, and progress from the under-21s to the first team is a hard thing to do.

"But he's done well and he's alongside me at the moment, which is good. We've got to stick together."

Chrisene is now City's only fit senior left back option after Mahovo’s ankle injury left the Canaries facing another lengthy absence on the sidelines.

Both Lucien Mahovo and Ben Chrisene have struggled with injuries, with the former currently facing a spell on the sidelines. (Image: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd)

What has followed has understandably been a tough period for Mahovo as he grapples with another lay-off, but Chrisene is there to provide support throughout having battled his own fitness issues in recent times.

"It's been hard for Lucien. I feel for him, because we're in the same position injury-wise as well as playing-wise, and we just want to play football," he said.

"I think all the lads are going to put their arms around him and support him in that. It's just like the rest of the lads that are injured at the moment. You've got to support them through this time because we've all been there, especially with myself.

"He'll come back stronger, no doubt about it. Whether that's in a couple of months' time or shorter, we'll see the best out of him, for sure."