Russell Martin will be looking for Norwich City to take full advantage of Mike Phelan's training-ground expertise.

The Canaries' new first team coach, who yesterday filled the void left by the sacking of Mark Robson less than a fortnight ago, is seen as one of the best coaches in the business. Manchester United's former assistant won a plethora of titles working alongside Sir Alex Ferguson and his arrival comes at the ideal time, according to City's skipper.

Martin, who has returned to Colney after back-to-back games with Scotland, said: 'Me and Whitts (Steven Whittaker) have been away for Scotland which has been great, they were two really big games to be involved in, and it gives you a certain distraction and something else to look forward to.

'We're not away again with internationals until March so we've got a long period of time, with less midweek games as well, together on the training pitch. I think that'll be good for us.

'I think we've probably come to a point where we need some time like that. It's good to be back and I'm looking forward to a big game on Saturday.'

Phelan's work will begin after the weekend's home test against Brighton. The former Canaries' skipper, and one-time assistant, begins his latest stint in Norfolk on Wednesday.

Martin added: 'I think it's always obviously a disappointment when someone loses their job, but we look forward to Mike coming in and I think it's a fantastic appointment for the football club. The boss has made the decision that he feels is best for the football club. I don't think it's a case of results haven't been great so someone's got to go. I don't think it's that at all. He's made a decision on what he thinks is best and hopefully it will work out well for all parties.'