JON Tomkinson went on his own scouting mission to help smooth his City arrival.

The Norwich defender made a delayed move to Valley Parade after the EFL sanctioned his loan move several days after the transfer window had shut.

But Tomkinson used that time in limbo to research his prospective new club by watching them at Mansfield.

The American was in the main stand at Field Mill for the recent goalless draw and found it a useful exercise.

“I came up and met with the gaffer,” he said. “I didn’t meet the boys because obviously nothing had gone through.

“It was good for me to see them playing and get a feel of what I could be stepping in to.

“You get to learn about the players you are going to play with and try and think of what’s going to be expected of you when you do play.”

 

 

Tomkinson admitted the hanging around waiting for the green light from the authorities was “a little stressful”.

“I never thought I’d have to experience that in my career at all.

“There was a lot of waiting and a lot of phone calls to find out if it had gone through or not.

“But I was happy to finally get it done.

“It’s been really exciting. They are a really good group of guys who have all been very friendly and welcoming to me.

“I feel like I’ve been able to hit the ground running and get into some meaningful training sessions.”

Tomkinson got a brief introduction last week when he came on for Sam Stubbs in the closing minutes against Grimsby.

The 21-year-old slotted in comfortably at the back and believes City’s playing style is a good fit for his own game.

He added: “Right now, we’re playing pretty expansive stuff. We’re playing out the back and we look to be a possession-based side.

“I enjoy that. I feel like I’m comfortable on the ball and very well suited to it.

“It is still physical but more teams here are now playing out, especially as you filter down the leagues.

“Norwich is obviously a very possession-based club as well so that wasn’t much of an adjustment in terms of tactics.

“It’s getting used to the physical side of things. Even then, once you transition from academy football to men’s football, it’s a big education with that.

“You’re playing for points now, playing for promotions, relegations, everything.”