Norwich City: A Preview for the 2012-13 Season

Mark Thompson/Getty Images

I think the vast majority of Norwich City fans are feeling very good about the prospects of another superb season in the Premier League.

Chris Hughton is beginning to put his own stamp on the Canaries, and the squad has certainly been strengthened from last season. That said, the second season in the Premier League is typically more difficult than the first.

Nevertheless, the Canaries have done all the right things to consolidate on their first season.

The Manager

Mark Thompson/Getty Images

Chris Hughton is the new man in the hot seat at Carrow Road, but he has plenty of top quality experience to call on.

He will be confident that he can continue to push Norwich City forward—at the very least looking to keep his new side in the Premier League.

The Fans

Bryn Lennon/Getty Images

Norwich City fans support their team in big numbers both at Carrow Road and at away games.

It was common for games to be sold out last season at home, and this is a trend that will continue in the new season. I think it is fair to say that fans will also travel in their numbers to support their team.

New Signings

Pete Norton/Getty Images

Their have been four new signings at Carrow Road this season.

Jacob Butterfield, Michael Turner, Steven Whittaker and Robert Snodgrass will all be excellent additions to the squad.  They all play in different positions with varied qualities, adding real strength-in-depth to the squad.

The Rest of the Squad

Mark Runnacles/Getty Images

The club have done an excellent job in keeping the squad from last season together. The success of last season would have certainly resulted in interest.

However, the stars of the last campaign are still here and can expect to go on to perform very well again.

Second Season in the Premier League

Mark Thompson/Getty Images

The second season in the Premier League is said to be more difficult than the first, but Norwich have made all the right decisions to ensure this does not become a problem.

The managerial change may benefit Norwich, as other teams will not know about Hughton's tactical ideas.

A Word on the Defense

Mark Runnacles/Getty Images

One thing that Norwich must improve on this season is their defensive record. This is both in terms on the number of goals they concede and the amount of clean sheets.

The additions of Turner and Whittaker will hopefully help this situation and there are high hopes of a good season from Ryan Bennett.

But it was a surprise to see Daniel Ayala leave the club to join Nottingham Forest on loan.

Expectations for the Season Ahead

Pete Norton/Getty Images

Clearly, the first target for next season will be to reach 40 points and remain in the Premier League. But if that can be achieved fairly quickly, then Norwich can think about finishing in the top-half of the table.

They may also consider some success in the cup competitions.

Follow James on Twitter and Facebook.