Johan Elmander does not have to convince Chris Hughton of his value to Norwich City.

Hughton accepts the Swedish international's lack of goal output in the Premier League has left the experienced forward open to criticism in certain quarters, but the Canaries' chief insists he remains a valuable commodity.

'I can understand perhaps why some people will focus on the goal record because he is predominantly a forward player,' said Hughton. 'Would we have liked him to have scored more goals for us? Yes we would, but what levels that off is the work-rate and what else he gives the team. We are playing in an age now where the statistics show it is difficult to play two out-and-out strikers. There are not many teams in this division who do that. Johan gives us that nice blend between at times leading that forward line but also that link and ability to play in the channels. As a team we are very appreciative.

'I think Johan is someone I can speak about in very good terms but when you hear other people like Gary (Hooper) and those he has played with internationally they will tell you he is a team player. He probably doesn't and maybe won't get the recognition he deserves. There aren't many players in the forward line that cover the distance he does. He has been very, very good.'

• Norwich City Under-21s lost 4-1 at Newcastle United on Friday afternoon. Striker Carlton Morris, who recently signed as a professional, scored the opener but the home side scored four in response with established first team players Steven Taylor and Jonas Gutierrez both featuring for the Magpies.