Nigel Worthington explained that the centre-back, who played an integral role in the Canaries' fightback to the brink of Premiership survival, is still recovering from the effects of a bout of mumps. The 21-year-old was struck down on hoilday and has been a step behind the rest of the squad during pre-season preparations.
Fans and pundits alike were surprised by Shackell's absence on Saturday as the defence looked vulnerable against Coventry City, eventually surrendering the lead to a Dele Adebola strike. Gary Doherty, who earned a recall after shedding close to a stone in weight over the summer, again came in for criticism. It was only when Shackell replaced the Irish international against Manchester City last season that Nowich's form began to turn around following a Highbury hammering.
Shackell is unlikely to be fit to start against Crewe tomorrow night, remaining on the sidelins with Moroccan midfielder Youssef Safri. Jason Jarrett is expected to play more of a part than his two-minute cameo against Coventry, while Dean Marney, who was immensely impressive on his debut, will hopefully recover from the knock which required lengthy treatment on Saturday.