Flooding has forced Norwich City to close the lower tier of the Barclay Stand for the club's upcoming two home pre-season friendlies at Carrow Road.

However a club spokesman has confirmed the club are confident the stand will be fine for City's first home Championship match of the season, against Watford on Saturday, August 16.

A statement on the club's website says: 'Due to the torrential rain in recent days in the immediate area of Norwich City Football Club, the Barclay Stand Lower concourses and Russell Allison Lounge suffered partial flooding.

'Unfortunately, on health and safety grounds, we will have to close this area for our pre-season fixtures against OGC Nice on Monday and Celta Vigo on Friday while essential maintenance takes place.

'Fans who have already bought tickets in the Lower Barclay for at least one of the fixtures will need to exchange their tickets for another part of the stadium.'

The spokesman added that the flooding had been 'ankle deep', causing damage to flooring and underlay, cracking some tiles, and causing some health and safety risks.

With the food and drink service areas of the Russell Allison Lounge nearby, the area also has to be brought up to appropriate sanitary standards before it is re-opened.

The spokesman added that the club are expecting a healthy crowd for both friendly games but don't expect the closure of the lower Barclay to mean the club are unable to meet the demand for tickets for the games.

The club advises that supporters affected by this call 0844 826 1902 (Option 1), email tickets@canaries.co.uk or speak to staff at the Carrow Road ticket office or Castle Mall and Chapelfield stores.

The statement adds: 'Sorry for any inconvenience caused.'