Norwich City manager Neil Adams has admitted that Alexander Tettey was "very unlucky" to have been dropped from the starting lineup during Saturday's 1-1 draw with Rotherham United.
The Norwegian international has featured on a regular basis this season, but Adams opted instead to start Jonny Howson alongside Bradley Johnson in the heart of the midfield.
However, the Canaries boss has revealed that Tettey's omissions is no reflection on his recent form.
"I just wanted a little bit more drive with the ball. Jonny has got that good energy and the ability to do that. I told Alex he is very unlucky to be left out because he has done nothing wrong," he told the Eastern Daily Press.
"He hasn't been dropped in any way. I just felt Jonny and Jonno gave us a sitter and one who is more inclined to drive forward than Alex.
"He has been brilliant for me this season and that is the advantage of a good squad. I can change it, not because players aren't performing, but because you think others can hurt the opposition."
Tettey has now joined up with the Norway squad for the upcoming Euro 2016 qualifiers against Malta and Bulgaria.