Jordan Rhodes has seen the hurdles Kenny McLean has overcome to establish himself as an essential part of Norwich City's play-off push. 

McLean has been ever-present in City's side this season and has been arguably one of their most consistent performers. 

Rhodes played alongside McLean during his successful Norwich loan spell in their 2018/19 Championship title-winning campaign and has seen how important the midfielder has become to David Wagner's side. 

“You can see how well Kenny McLean has been doing and how well he adapted to Premier League and Championship football, coming down from Scotland," Rhodes told Sky Bet.

“It wasn’t easy for him and his family to come down from Aberdeen, but he took on the challenge and he’s been ever-present in the Norwich team since he arrived in 2018.

"It’s good to see him doing well. He’s a great person and someone you wish nothing but good things for. It’s pleasing to see players like him playing in the Premier League, scoring goals and doing well.” 

Rhodes cherishes the memories from his brief but enjoyable period at Norwich, which culminated in promotion to the Premier League. 

Norwich were unable to sign the Scottish international on a permanent basis - but he still speaks fondly of his time in Norfolk. 

“I had a great year playing at Norwich. Walking into a dressing room with some big names at the time, especially with the existing strikers at the club, just made everything so easy for me when I arrived," he said. 

Eastern Daily Press: Jordan Rhodes enjoyed his season on loan at Norwich City.Jordan Rhodes enjoyed his season on loan at Norwich City. (Image: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd)

"That was a testament to how Daniel Farke and Stuart Webber had built up the club in general. The team was incredibly fit and organised, and we had a nice balance of young and hungry players that had come through, and you can now see with how their careers have played out, with the likes of Ben Godfrey, Max Aarons, Jamal Lewis and Emi Buendía.

"A talented bunch, who were all hard-working, and that was the one club that I had to work my hardest because of my teammates.

"It was very demanding, as is the German way, but the squad reaped the rewards from their hard work. We went from strength to strength, went on a great run and won the league – so it’s nice to have the winners medal at home and will be something I will explain to my children and grandchildren.”