The Blues made heavy work of despatching the Championship outfit but finally went ahead just seconds before the end of normal time thanks to Georgios Samaras’ neat finish.
“We’re relieved to get through,” Sven asserts, “and that’s the most important thing. I can’t say that we played excellent football, because I don’t think we did that.
“However it was the first time this eleven had played together, it’s a clean sheet and we are through even if we can play a little bit better. Norwich fought, they had no pressure so could go out and express themselves, which they did.”
As with the previous round, City’s team was much changed from the one that played in the last league fixture but the Manager backed his choice, which saw the eventual goal scorer make his first appearance of the season.
“I had to give some players who have not played much the chance to perform, I think it’s the right thing to do – but next time they have to do a little bit better. We should have played better than we did tonight.
“They learned a lot, and so did I, which is important to us for the future. We’re going to do everything to go as far as possible ikn this competition, I can promise that to the fans.”
The Greek international striker’s goal was his first since the FA Cup tie at Hillsborough in January, and Sven praised his overall contribution after a period when press speculation linked him with a move away from the Club.
“He took his chance, and I’m very happy for him because he’s been very professional after he decided he wanted to stay. He’s been very good in training, he’s always been stayed positive so congratulations to him.”
