Canaries midfielder Carl Robinson, who has been involved in talks with Toronto FC, was told earlier this month that he would be on the sidelines at Carrow Road.

Canaries midfielder Carl Robinson, who has been involved in talks with Toronto FC, was told earlier this month that he would be on the sidelines at Carrow Road.

"A couple of weeks ago a deal fell down for a midfielder and I said to him (Robinson) that I was looking for a different type of midfield player," explained manager Peter Grant. Because he had been so good to me I didn't want to give him a bit part so I gave him permission to speak. The reason is because I think he has been terrific since he came here, absolutely brilliant."

Grant said the fact that it was Canada, rather than elsewhere in England, made up his mind.

"If it was an English club no chance - but because it is a change of lifestyle that's why I gave him the opportunity to speak," he added. "Carl went to speak to them two weeks ago. I allowed him the time, three days - it is a big choice for him because itnot just up the road. He has a young family and a wife."