Last time out, Leicester City ended a five-game unbeaten run with a crucial win against fellow strugglers Norwich City. The international break that followed once again hurt the Foxes, as it’s the third time they have won their game before the break and it kills any chances of building momentum. Therefore, here is the Leicester Predicted Lineup as they return to action against high flyers Stoke City, who are headed by former player Mark Robins.
Leicester Predicted Lineup vs Stoke City
How Leicester City Have Lined Up Recently
In the clash against the Canaries, Cifuentes once again made tweaks amid fitness concerns from playing in midweek. Asmir Begovic started his first game for the club, as Jakub Stolarczyk remains sidelined following an injury against Middlesbrough. Ben Nelson looked to create momentum following an excellent performance against Middlesbrough, where he complemented Jannik Vestergaard well. However, a devastating injury saw him stretchered off before the break. Rounding off the backline, Ricardo returned after missing out against Boro, whilst Caleb Okoli continued to impress at fullback.
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Unlike the changes to the backline, the double pivot remained intact with former Spurs duo Oliver Skipp and Harry Winks. Just in front of them, eventual match-winner Jordan James started in the number 10 role. However, he did later drop deeper into a box-to-box role as fellow goalscorer Bobby Decordova Reid was introduced. On the flanks, Abdul Fatawu and Jordan Ayew also started back-to-back games, as Jeremy Monga and Stephy Mavididi were benched. As is becoming a common occurrence, there was a change up top as Zambia International Patson Daka forced Julian Carranza out of the starting eleven.
Leicester City’s Recent Form And Tactics
With James rescuing a crucial three points at Carrow Road, some of City’s positives were once again on show. For instance, the Welshman continued his excellent form for the Foxes since signing back on deadline day. The bullet header not only emphasised his best attributes, like ghosting into the box, but it also highlighted his importance in winning matches. It was his third goal of the season, which is a decent tally considering he’s often in the unfamiliar number 10 role, and in a side struggling to create chances.
Read More: Predicted Lineup Last Time out Against Norwich City
Furthermore, the addition of Decordova Reid was also crucial in securing the victory. The Jamaican International came on with 17 minutes to go, and immediately made an impact with a terrific goal two minutes into his cameo. For James’ goal, he was involved once again, as he combined well with Fatawu on the right-hand side, which was pivotal in ensuring the perfect cross was put in.
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Overall, it was a good result for Leicester, but a performance that still highlights problems. Norwich did take the lead, and if not for the moments of brilliance, they could have taken a point away from the game. However, this isn’t to say the Foxes weren’t in control, as they boasted 66% possession and 14 shots. Time will tell whether they can kick on in the next few games as we head into the gruelling festive period.
Leicester City Injuries to Consider
As confirmed by the Spaniard, injuries will affect his squad for this weekend’s clash. Following injuries against Norwich, both Nelson and Okoli will be sidelined for the clash at King Power Stadium. Furthermore, Stolarczyk came off after the first half against Middlesbrough, which means he is also likely to miss out. Meanwhile, other long-term injuries include Victor Kristiansen and Harry Souttar.
Leicester Predicted Lineup vs Stoke City
GK: Asmir Begovic
RB: Ricardo Pereira
RCB: Wout Faes
LCB: Jannik Vestergaard
LB: Luke Thomas
DM: Jordan James
DM: Harry Winks
RW: Abdul Fatawu
AM: Bobby Decordova Reid
LW: Stephy Mavididi
ST: Patson Daka
Featured Image Credit:
IMAGO / Pro Sports Images
