Norwich City have a gem in Kenny McLean – and James Maddison should know.

The Canaries' midfield ace played alongside the Scottish international during a fruitful loan stint at Aberdeen last season, and Maddison insists the 26-year-old is an astute purchase.

'I remember when we signed him I told the boss, 'We have signed a good player there',' said Maddison. 'He is a midfield player with a lovely left foot and a great passing range. He has a good engine, he can get up and down, and he can score goals.

'I think Norwich will be very happy with the business they have done there when he is in the building and playing next season.

'It is definitely going to be a step up, in my opinion, to go and play in the Championship but Kenny is a good enough player and more than capable of doing that step, seeing him play up close.

'We used to stay out after training had finished and practise free kicks.

'When I went there I tried to bully him off set pieces straight away.

'It didn't quite work out that way, but he is technically gifted and although it is a step up one I am sure he can rise to it.'

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Maddison is confident McLean will benefit from working under Daniel Farke in the same way he has blossomed this season.

The 21-year-old capped a stellar season by lifting the club's player-of-the-year trophy.

'He (Farke) gave me that chance and I am truly grateful,' said the England Under-21 starlet.

'I think I have had a good season but I said at the EFL awards it is so difficult to feel that and you look at where we are in the table.

'This is a team game, I am a winner.

'I want to win so badly and it is so annoying to see these other teams playing for the play-offs. We have not been consistent enough.

'We have shown glimpses we can be right up there but also moments when we deserve to be where we are.

'I have stayed fit, and that meant I could be available for selection.

'But perhaps from October onwards it has been a long slog because you don't get a rest in the international break. To have four or five days and recharge the batteries does help but I had the privilege of going off to play for my country.

'It was tough but you have to take a step back and realise how many games you have played.

'I am proud of that and keeping at the levels I have set myself.'