USMNT scoring machine Josh Sargent picks up fresh injury as Norwich are dealt blow ahead of crucial Preston clash

After opening the scoring in their 2-2 draw with Sheffield Wednesday on Tuesday, the U.S. international left the pitch in the 60th minute. The Canaries conceded twice after his departure, in a gutting result. On Thursday, Norwich boss David Wagner revealed that Sargent's removal was not a tactical one, rather, he picked up an unexpected injury.

"Josh [Sargent] came off after 60 minutes with some quad tightness on Tuesday. He is a doubt, as he was not able to train today," Wagner told the official Norwich website.

Losing the 24-year-old would be a major blow for the Canaries ahead of this weekend's clash, with only Wrexham's Paul Mullin scoring more goals in the top four divisions of English football since the turn of the year. His form has led to calls for him to be included in the USMNT's squad for the Copa America this summer.

Norwich head into the game occupying the fourth and final Championship promotion play-off place. They currently hold a five-point lead over Coventry in sixth, but as the Sky Blues have a game in hand, victory over eighth-positioned Preston would provide a major boost to their hopes of returning to the Premier League.