Todd Cantwell’s Norwich absence explained amid Newcastle reports

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Norwich boss Dean Smith has explained why Newcastle target Todd Cantwell didn’t play at the weekend.

The Canaries took on Charlton Athletic in the third round of the FA Cup, progressing to the next stage thanks to a 1-0 win.

But Cantwell was conspicuous in his absence, not even making the bench for the cup clash. This led to some speculation that he was close to a transfer.

The midfielder has been heavily linked with a move away from Carrow Road over the past week. There has been a lot of talk about a move to Newcastle, with the Telegraph claiming that the Magpies have made an enquiry.

Norwich reportedly want at least £15million for the 23-year-old, while Jason Burt has claimed that he could become Newcastle’s second signing of the month.

But Norwich boss Smith has given the reason for Cantwell missing Sunday’s game, and it has nothing to do with a transfer.

What has Dean Smith said about Newcastle target Todd Cantwell?

Smith spoke to the press ahead of Norwich’s Premier League clash with West Ham, and was asked about Cantwell’s absence.

“No, there’s been no developments at all,” Smith said.

“Todd has been ill. That’s why he wasn’t in the squad at the weekend. He didn’t train yesterday, he was still feeling ill. But I expect him to train today and to be in the squad for tomorrow.”

Hopes of imminent Cantwell move dashed

It felt like silence was golden. The lack of noise surrounding Cantwell and Newcastle had some people dreaming of a swift swoop.

But it appears that won’t be the case. Alas, illness kept him out of action on Sunday rather than an imminent move to the North East.

However, this isn’t to say that Cantwell won’t join Eddie Howe’s side. Talk has gone quiet lately, with Newcastle’s attentions shifting to a striker and centre-back ahead of the Watford game.

But the 23-year-old would still be an interesting addition for the Magpies. He would arrive with a point to prove, and a fresh face in midfield could certainly give the team a lift – similar to what Joe Willock did last season.