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THE LATEST LEICESTER CITY FC NEWS STORIES
Leicester City come from behind to claim pre-season victory over Cheltenham Town
Leicester City came from behind at Cheltenham to keep up their 100 per cent pre-season record.
Trailing at the break to Leicester lad Luke Varney’s header, City’s stronger 11 came on in the second period and clinched the win, Jamie Vardy and Marc Albrighton grabbing the goals. Brendan Rodgers fielded a weaker 11 in the first half but they made a strong start and nearly had the lead inside 90 seconds. Andy King switched play to Vontae Daley-Campbell, an 18-year-old right-back signed from Arsenal this summer, and he dribbled to the byline before clipping a cross into the box.
An unmarked Kelechi Iheanacho twisted his body to flick his header goalwards, Cheltenham goalkeeper Scott Flinders tipping the ball onto the crossbar and over. Despite their dominance of possession and territory in the opening quarter of an hour, Iheanacho’s header was the only chance City fashioned, and they were made to pay when Cheltenham made their first foray forward. Sean Long crossed deep to the back post, where Daley-Campbell had been left with two men to mark.
The young right-back was beaten in the air by veteran striker Varney, who nodded the ball into the bottom corner. Danny Ward, caught in two minds over whether to come for the cross, was left flat-footed. City’s dominance resumed but they failed to find the net before half-time.
After Iheanacho charged down Flinders’ clearance, development squad winger Callum Wright saw a shot blocked. From the corner, Wes Morgan headed over.
Without Premier League points on the line, Morgan then felt compelled to try his luck from 35 yards after controlling a bouncing ball with his chest. To his credit, the centre-back drew a save from Flinders. The half finished just as it had started, with a headed chance for Iheanacho. This time, he escaped his marker to reach Callum Elder’s cross, but he could not keep his effort down. The big-hitters came on at half-time and they almost had City on level terms just after the break.
Youri Tielemans threaded Ricardo Pereira, playing on the right wing with Ayoze Perez out injured, in behind, but his shot was blocked. Then Jonny Evans delivered a beautiful ball over the top onto Jamie Vardy’s head, but he looped his effort over. City had maintained their dominance of possession from the first half and looked more creative, but they quite often found themselves short of men in the box to get on the end of crosses. Vardy went alone on one occasion and though he made it all the way to the six-yard box before Cheltenham skipper Ben Tozer made a superb sliding tackle. Just as the game was creeping towards ‘frustrating afternoon’ territory, City found their stride.
Tielemans turned the ball around the corner to Layton Ndukwu, who lofted a ball over the top to Vardy first time. The striker battled through one challenge and then tried to curl the ball past Flinders, who palmed it away. A minute later, Vardy did have the ball in the net bringing City level after terrific work from Tielemans. The Belgian read the game excellently to charge down a clearance before pulling the ball out of the air with his first touch and prodding it through to Vardy with his second, the number nine tucking it past Flinders.
City had the momentum now and second goal was just around the corner. Ricardo’s flicked header from Tielemans’ corner trickled just past the post but City hit the target with their next effort and took the lead. Papy Mendy won the ball back in midfield and played it behind the defence to Marc Albrighton, who rounded the keeper with his first touch and stuck it away with his second. City had time to bring on 16-year-old Ethan Fitzhugh late on, a sign that this was a game won, Rodgers’ men seeing out the victory with ease to make it back-to-back pre-season wins.
First half: Ward; Daley-Campbell, Morgan, Maguire, Elder (Fuchs, 43’); Amartey; Wright, Thomas, King, Muskwe; Iheanacho.
Second half: Ward; Justin, Evans, Soyuncu, Fuchs; Mendy; Ricardo, Tielemans, Ndukwu (Fitzhugh, 81’), Albrighton; Vardy.
Unused subs: Johansson, Pennant.
Leicester Mercury
Leicester City came from behind at Cheltenham to keep up their 100 per cent pre-season record.
Trailing at the break to Leicester lad Luke Varney’s header, City’s stronger 11 came on in the second period and clinched the win, Jamie Vardy and Marc Albrighton grabbing the goals. Brendan Rodgers fielded a weaker 11 in the first half but they made a strong start and nearly had the lead inside 90 seconds. Andy King switched play to Vontae Daley-Campbell, an 18-year-old right-back signed from Arsenal this summer, and he dribbled to the byline before clipping a cross into the box.
An unmarked Kelechi Iheanacho twisted his body to flick his header goalwards, Cheltenham goalkeeper Scott Flinders tipping the ball onto the crossbar and over. Despite their dominance of possession and territory in the opening quarter of an hour, Iheanacho’s header was the only chance City fashioned, and they were made to pay when Cheltenham made their first foray forward. Sean Long crossed deep to the back post, where Daley-Campbell had been left with two men to mark.
The young right-back was beaten in the air by veteran striker Varney, who nodded the ball into the bottom corner. Danny Ward, caught in two minds over whether to come for the cross, was left flat-footed. City’s dominance resumed but they failed to find the net before half-time.
After Iheanacho charged down Flinders’ clearance, development squad winger Callum Wright saw a shot blocked. From the corner, Wes Morgan headed over.
Without Premier League points on the line, Morgan then felt compelled to try his luck from 35 yards after controlling a bouncing ball with his chest. To his credit, the centre-back drew a save from Flinders. The half finished just as it had started, with a headed chance for Iheanacho. This time, he escaped his marker to reach Callum Elder’s cross, but he could not keep his effort down. The big-hitters came on at half-time and they almost had City on level terms just after the break.
Youri Tielemans threaded Ricardo Pereira, playing on the right wing with Ayoze Perez out injured, in behind, but his shot was blocked. Then Jonny Evans delivered a beautiful ball over the top onto Jamie Vardy’s head, but he looped his effort over. City had maintained their dominance of possession from the first half and looked more creative, but they quite often found themselves short of men in the box to get on the end of crosses. Vardy went alone on one occasion and though he made it all the way to the six-yard box before Cheltenham skipper Ben Tozer made a superb sliding tackle. Just as the game was creeping towards ‘frustrating afternoon’ territory, City found their stride.
Tielemans turned the ball around the corner to Layton Ndukwu, who lofted a ball over the top to Vardy first time. The striker battled through one challenge and then tried to curl the ball past Flinders, who palmed it away. A minute later, Vardy did have the ball in the net bringing City level after terrific work from Tielemans. The Belgian read the game excellently to charge down a clearance before pulling the ball out of the air with his first touch and prodding it through to Vardy with his second, the number nine tucking it past Flinders.
City had the momentum now and second goal was just around the corner. Ricardo’s flicked header from Tielemans’ corner trickled just past the post but City hit the target with their next effort and took the lead. Papy Mendy won the ball back in midfield and played it behind the defence to Marc Albrighton, who rounded the keeper with his first touch and stuck it away with his second. City had time to bring on 16-year-old Ethan Fitzhugh late on, a sign that this was a game won, Rodgers’ men seeing out the victory with ease to make it back-to-back pre-season wins.
First half: Ward; Daley-Campbell, Morgan, Maguire, Elder (Fuchs, 43’); Amartey; Wright, Thomas, King, Muskwe; Iheanacho.
Second half: Ward; Justin, Evans, Soyuncu, Fuchs; Mendy; Ricardo, Tielemans, Ndukwu (Fitzhugh, 81’), Albrighton; Vardy.
Unused subs: Johansson, Pennant.
Leicester Mercury
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'An exciting start' - Ayoze Perez stars as Leicester City open pre-season with win at Scunthorpe United
New signing Ayoze Perez wrestled the spotlight from Harry Maguire to clinch victory for Leicester City in their pre-season opener at Scunthorpe United.
The £30 million recruit from Newcastle was the star of the show on his first outing in City colours, scoring the only goal of the game in an exciting first-half performance from Brendan Rodgers’ side. All eyes were on Maguire during the opening stages of the game. One fan even shouted from the sidelines: “Stay at Leicester, Maguire, Man Utd ain’t worth it!” But Perez did his utmost to avert supporters’ eyes back to the pitch.
Starting wide right but drifting infield at every opportunity, it was the Spaniard that had the first chance of the match, bringing down a cross and spinning on a sixpence before firing over.
Khanya Leshabela, the young South African midfielder given a chance by Brendan Rodgers, was doing his best to impress too and saw two shots saved, one from distance and another after he danced into the box. City were knocking the ball around nicely but that pre-season sloppiness was still evident, Scunthorpe creating their only chance of the first half after Caglar Soyuncu was dispossessed on halfway. The Iron broke clear, but James Perch could only place his shot wide.
From there, City were back on the front foot and showing their superiority.
Tielemans saw a close-range chance blocked, Perez denied by Scunthorpe goalkeeper Jake Eastwood on the follow-up, before Tielemans watched another effort deflect over. City’s opportunities became more clear-cut as the first half wore on and Marc Albrighton blew a big chance on the half-hour, ballooning over from close range after good work from Perez, Ricardo Pereira and Jamie Vardy on the right-hand side. The right flank was where City were most dangerous and they exploited their strengths on the opening goal.
Albrighton pinged a beautiful ball across the pitch into the path of Ricardo, who charged forward and cut the ball back to an advancing Perez, who clipped it beyond Eastwood with a first-time shot. Crosses from the right created two more chances for City before the first half closed, Perez and Vardy both going close with headers.
It was almost all-change at the break with just Eldin Jakupovic and Leshabela keeping their spots. Among those coming on were Justin, Wes Morgan, Kelechi Iheanacho and the man they’d been waiting for, Maguire. The second half was much more recognisable as an early pre-season affair, the intensity and quality disappearing from the game.
Morgan headed a Rachid Ghezzal free-kick over, and new signing Justin, a raw talent brought in for £6m from Luton, curled wide on one of his many adventures forward from right-back. As the match ticked past the hour mark, the game went quiet. The same cannot be said of the stands. Maguire’s name was sung by the City fans as he lined up a 30-yard free-kick, but his effort was wild.
Down at the other end, in Scunthorpe’s best chance of the second period, Maguire went down winded after blocking Perch’s fierce shot. “£80 million, you’re having a laugh,” sang the home fans. “Harry Maguire, he’s worth more than you,” replied the travelling City faithful. Ghezzal curled a shot wide and then long-time servant Andy King volleyed just past the post as the game wound down to a close. City saw out the final minutes to finish 1-0 winners and while it will be Maguire’s name in the headlines, Perez was the standout man.
Scunthorpe (4-2-3-1): Eastwood; Clarke, McArdle, Butler (c), Ntlhe; Songo’o (Hallam, 60’), Perch; Gilliead (Olomola, 78’), Lund (McAtee, 78’), Dales (Hammill, 60’); Novak (Wootton, 78’).
City first-half line-up (4-1-4-1): Jakupovic; Ricardo, Evans (c), Soyuncu, Fuchs; Mendy; Perez, Tielemans, Leshabela, Albrighton; Vardy.
City second-half line-up (4-1-4-1): Jakupovic; Justin, Morgan, Maguire, Elder; Amartey; Ghezzal, King, Leshabela (Knight, 66’), Muskwe; Iheanacho.
Leicester Mercury
New signing Ayoze Perez wrestled the spotlight from Harry Maguire to clinch victory for Leicester City in their pre-season opener at Scunthorpe United.
The £30 million recruit from Newcastle was the star of the show on his first outing in City colours, scoring the only goal of the game in an exciting first-half performance from Brendan Rodgers’ side. All eyes were on Maguire during the opening stages of the game. One fan even shouted from the sidelines: “Stay at Leicester, Maguire, Man Utd ain’t worth it!” But Perez did his utmost to avert supporters’ eyes back to the pitch.
Starting wide right but drifting infield at every opportunity, it was the Spaniard that had the first chance of the match, bringing down a cross and spinning on a sixpence before firing over.
Khanya Leshabela, the young South African midfielder given a chance by Brendan Rodgers, was doing his best to impress too and saw two shots saved, one from distance and another after he danced into the box. City were knocking the ball around nicely but that pre-season sloppiness was still evident, Scunthorpe creating their only chance of the first half after Caglar Soyuncu was dispossessed on halfway. The Iron broke clear, but James Perch could only place his shot wide.
From there, City were back on the front foot and showing their superiority.
Tielemans saw a close-range chance blocked, Perez denied by Scunthorpe goalkeeper Jake Eastwood on the follow-up, before Tielemans watched another effort deflect over. City’s opportunities became more clear-cut as the first half wore on and Marc Albrighton blew a big chance on the half-hour, ballooning over from close range after good work from Perez, Ricardo Pereira and Jamie Vardy on the right-hand side. The right flank was where City were most dangerous and they exploited their strengths on the opening goal.
Albrighton pinged a beautiful ball across the pitch into the path of Ricardo, who charged forward and cut the ball back to an advancing Perez, who clipped it beyond Eastwood with a first-time shot. Crosses from the right created two more chances for City before the first half closed, Perez and Vardy both going close with headers.
It was almost all-change at the break with just Eldin Jakupovic and Leshabela keeping their spots. Among those coming on were Justin, Wes Morgan, Kelechi Iheanacho and the man they’d been waiting for, Maguire. The second half was much more recognisable as an early pre-season affair, the intensity and quality disappearing from the game.
Morgan headed a Rachid Ghezzal free-kick over, and new signing Justin, a raw talent brought in for £6m from Luton, curled wide on one of his many adventures forward from right-back. As the match ticked past the hour mark, the game went quiet. The same cannot be said of the stands. Maguire’s name was sung by the City fans as he lined up a 30-yard free-kick, but his effort was wild.
Down at the other end, in Scunthorpe’s best chance of the second period, Maguire went down winded after blocking Perch’s fierce shot. “£80 million, you’re having a laugh,” sang the home fans. “Harry Maguire, he’s worth more than you,” replied the travelling City faithful. Ghezzal curled a shot wide and then long-time servant Andy King volleyed just past the post as the game wound down to a close. City saw out the final minutes to finish 1-0 winners and while it will be Maguire’s name in the headlines, Perez was the standout man.
Scunthorpe (4-2-3-1): Eastwood; Clarke, McArdle, Butler (c), Ntlhe; Songo’o (Hallam, 60’), Perch; Gilliead (Olomola, 78’), Lund (McAtee, 78’), Dales (Hammill, 60’); Novak (Wootton, 78’).
City first-half line-up (4-1-4-1): Jakupovic; Ricardo, Evans (c), Soyuncu, Fuchs; Mendy; Perez, Tielemans, Leshabela, Albrighton; Vardy.
City second-half line-up (4-1-4-1): Jakupovic; Justin, Morgan, Maguire, Elder; Amartey; Ghezzal, King, Leshabela (Knight, 66’), Muskwe; Iheanacho.
Leicester Mercury
Leicester City agree £45m Lewis Dunk transfer with Brighton defender to replace Man Utd bound Harry Maguire
LEICESTER have agreed a £45million deal for Brighton defender Lewis Dunk.
The Seagulls centre-back is set to replace Harry Maguire, who is heading to Manchester United in a world-record £80m swoop.
Brendan Rodgers has been targeting Burnley's James Tarkowski and Dunkas possible replacements for Maguire. And SunSport understand that it is the Seagulls star who is set to fill the shoes of the Foxes centre-back at King Power Stadium. Dunk, 27, has spent his whole career at Brighton - barring a one-year loan spell at Bristol City in 2013.
He made 38 appearances for the Amex outfit last season, scoring two goals. Meanwhile, United have won the race for Maguire, 26, beating their bitter rivals City to his signature.
The Red Devils will pay Leicester £60m for the Foxes star, 26, with an extra £20m available in add-ons. And that will see him become the world's most expensive defender, topping the £75m Liverpool forked out on Virgil van Dijk, 28, in 2018. That comes just a few days after Maguire angrily accused Leicester of pricing him out of his mega move.
The Sun
LEICESTER have agreed a £45million deal for Brighton defender Lewis Dunk.
The Seagulls centre-back is set to replace Harry Maguire, who is heading to Manchester United in a world-record £80m swoop.
Brendan Rodgers has been targeting Burnley's James Tarkowski and Dunkas possible replacements for Maguire. And SunSport understand that it is the Seagulls star who is set to fill the shoes of the Foxes centre-back at King Power Stadium. Dunk, 27, has spent his whole career at Brighton - barring a one-year loan spell at Bristol City in 2013.
He made 38 appearances for the Amex outfit last season, scoring two goals. Meanwhile, United have won the race for Maguire, 26, beating their bitter rivals City to his signature.
The Red Devils will pay Leicester £60m for the Foxes star, 26, with an extra £20m available in add-ons. And that will see him become the world's most expensive defender, topping the £75m Liverpool forked out on Virgil van Dijk, 28, in 2018. That comes just a few days after Maguire angrily accused Leicester of pricing him out of his mega move.
The Sun
MANCHESTER UNITED agree a world-record £80million deal for Leicester defender Harry Maguire.
The England ace is set to fly to Manchester for his medical tomorrow. (Monday)
SunSport understand that United will pay Leicester £60m for Maguire, 26, with an extra £20m available in add-ons.
And that will see him become the world's most expensive defender, topping the £75m Liverpool forked out on Virgil van Dijk, 28, in 2018.
The Foxes have already found a replacement for their leader with Lewis Dunk, 27, set to join from Brighton in a £45m swoop. United have beaten their bitter rivals Manchester City to the centre-back's signature. Both the Premier League champions and the Red Devils have seen their £70m bids rejected by Leicester.
But after Old Trafford chiefs upped their offer, Leicester eventually sanctioned the deal. That comes just a few days after Maguire angrily accused Leicester of pricing him out of his mega move.
Jose Mourinho had been desperate to sign the centre-back last summer after the former Hull man's performances for England at the World Cup.
Leicester landed the Sheffield man for £17m in 2017 and will make a healthy £43m profit straight away.
The sun
The England ace is set to fly to Manchester for his medical tomorrow. (Monday)
SunSport understand that United will pay Leicester £60m for Maguire, 26, with an extra £20m available in add-ons.
And that will see him become the world's most expensive defender, topping the £75m Liverpool forked out on Virgil van Dijk, 28, in 2018.
The Foxes have already found a replacement for their leader with Lewis Dunk, 27, set to join from Brighton in a £45m swoop. United have beaten their bitter rivals Manchester City to the centre-back's signature. Both the Premier League champions and the Red Devils have seen their £70m bids rejected by Leicester.
But after Old Trafford chiefs upped their offer, Leicester eventually sanctioned the deal. That comes just a few days after Maguire angrily accused Leicester of pricing him out of his mega move.
Jose Mourinho had been desperate to sign the centre-back last summer after the former Hull man's performances for England at the World Cup.
Leicester landed the Sheffield man for £17m in 2017 and will make a healthy £43m profit straight away.
The sun
Youri Tielemans: Leicester City sign midfielder Youri Tielemans from Monaco for club-record £40m
Leicester City have confirmed the signing of midfielder Youri Tielemans from Monaco for a club-record £40m on a four-year deal. Tielemans spent the second half of last season on loan at the King Power Stadium, making 13 appearances, scoring three goals and adding four assists.
His performances alerted a number of other top clubs, in the Premier League and Europe, but Leicester have worked hard to secure him on a permanent deal with Rodgers making him his top transfer target.
Sky Sports News also previously reported Tielemans had made it clear Leicester was his preferred destination, even though it was suggested Manchester United might come in for him if Paul Pogba left Old Trafford this summer.
The 22-year-old is Brendan Rodgers' third signing of the summer following full-back James Justin's arrival from Luton and Ayoze Perez joining from Newcastle for £30m.
The Belgium international will now join up with the squad as Leicester travel to France next week for their pre-season training camp.
Sky Sports
Leicester City have confirmed the signing of midfielder Youri Tielemans from Monaco for a club-record £40m on a four-year deal. Tielemans spent the second half of last season on loan at the King Power Stadium, making 13 appearances, scoring three goals and adding four assists.
His performances alerted a number of other top clubs, in the Premier League and Europe, but Leicester have worked hard to secure him on a permanent deal with Rodgers making him his top transfer target.
Sky Sports News also previously reported Tielemans had made it clear Leicester was his preferred destination, even though it was suggested Manchester United might come in for him if Paul Pogba left Old Trafford this summer.
The 22-year-old is Brendan Rodgers' third signing of the summer following full-back James Justin's arrival from Luton and Ayoze Perez joining from Newcastle for £30m.
The Belgium international will now join up with the squad as Leicester travel to France next week for their pre-season training camp.
Sky Sports
Ayoze Perez completes Leicester move in £30m deal from Newcastle
Leicester have signed Ayoze Perez on a four-year contract from Newcastle for a £30m fee.
Perez, the 25-year-old forward, becomes Leicester's second signing of the summer after full-back James Justin arrived from Luton.
The forward had been linked with a return to Spain after saying last season "to go back to your country and play for a big team and enjoy La Liga, would be something great for my career".
Last season, Perez registered 13 goals and two assists across all competitions - ending the campaign with his best goals return since joining Newcastle from Tenerife in 2014.
Perez follows Rafa Benitez out of the exit door at St James' Park, after the former Liverpool, Chelsea and Real Madrid manager agreed to take over at Chinese club Dalian Yifang, where he will earn £12m-a-season.
Sky Sports
Leicester have signed Ayoze Perez on a four-year contract from Newcastle for a £30m fee.
Perez, the 25-year-old forward, becomes Leicester's second signing of the summer after full-back James Justin arrived from Luton.
The forward had been linked with a return to Spain after saying last season "to go back to your country and play for a big team and enjoy La Liga, would be something great for my career".
Last season, Perez registered 13 goals and two assists across all competitions - ending the campaign with his best goals return since joining Newcastle from Tenerife in 2014.
Perez follows Rafa Benitez out of the exit door at St James' Park, after the former Liverpool, Chelsea and Real Madrid manager agreed to take over at Chinese club Dalian Yifang, where he will earn £12m-a-season.
Sky Sports
NEWCASTLE have reached an agreement to sell Ayoze Perez to Leicester City for £30million.
The Spanish striker still has to undergo a medical and agree personal terms with Brendan Rodgers' side before the deal is finalised.
The Newcastle striker, 25, is in advanced talks with the Foxes, who hope to quickly wrap up his signature. Perez was keen to end his five-year spell with Newcastle following the departure of Rafa Benitez.
He made no secret of his desire to play in La Liga and was continuously linked to Spanish club Valencia. But he is set to snub a move abroad to continue his career with the Foxes, who finished ninth in the top-flight last term.
Leicester have also been linked to Chelsea legend Gary Cahill as a replacement for wantaway defender Harry Maguire. And they have already signed full-back James Justin from Championship side Luton Town for an undisclosed fee. Perez looks set to be the next arrival at the King Power Stadium after he hinted his days with Newcastle are numbered.
Speaking for the first time since Benitez's departure, he told Binter Canarias' in-flight magazine: "I think five years is a long time. "I'm one of those people who understands there's a need to close a cycle to open a new one at the most opportunistic and convenient time. Perhaps this is it.
"I have a feeling the summer will be big."
The Sun
The Spanish striker still has to undergo a medical and agree personal terms with Brendan Rodgers' side before the deal is finalised.
The Newcastle striker, 25, is in advanced talks with the Foxes, who hope to quickly wrap up his signature. Perez was keen to end his five-year spell with Newcastle following the departure of Rafa Benitez.
He made no secret of his desire to play in La Liga and was continuously linked to Spanish club Valencia. But he is set to snub a move abroad to continue his career with the Foxes, who finished ninth in the top-flight last term.
Leicester have also been linked to Chelsea legend Gary Cahill as a replacement for wantaway defender Harry Maguire. And they have already signed full-back James Justin from Championship side Luton Town for an undisclosed fee. Perez looks set to be the next arrival at the King Power Stadium after he hinted his days with Newcastle are numbered.
Speaking for the first time since Benitez's departure, he told Binter Canarias' in-flight magazine: "I think five years is a long time. "I'm one of those people who understands there's a need to close a cycle to open a new one at the most opportunistic and convenient time. Perhaps this is it.
"I have a feeling the summer will be big."
The Sun
Leicester line-up ex-Chelsea captain Cahill as potential replacement for Man Utd and City target Maguire
LEICESTER CITY are lining-up former Chelsea captain Gary Cahill as a potential replacement for Harry Maguire.
England defender Maguire has told the Foxes he wants to leave the club with Manchester United and City both keen on the 27-year-old.
Leicester are insisting they will only do business for £85m – but should they cash-in on the ex-Hull City star then they may have found a cheap alternative. Cahill, 33, is available on a free transfer after leaving the Blues following a highly-successful eight-year spell in West London.
He already has a number of clubs chasing his services as he weighs-up his future with Arsenal joining the chase last week. Now Leicester are plotting a swoop for the ex-Bolton veteran. However, they face competition from several other Premier League outfits. West Ham are also keen while Roy Hodgson would love to bring the veteran to Crystal Palace.
Cahill is determined to remain in the top-flight and he is also believed to be aiming to stay in London. That could rule out his old team Aston Villa, who are also interested in the centre-half. But the opportunity of regular first-team football could prove key, and he is most-likely to get that at Villa Park.
The Sun
LEICESTER CITY are lining-up former Chelsea captain Gary Cahill as a potential replacement for Harry Maguire.
England defender Maguire has told the Foxes he wants to leave the club with Manchester United and City both keen on the 27-year-old.
Leicester are insisting they will only do business for £85m – but should they cash-in on the ex-Hull City star then they may have found a cheap alternative. Cahill, 33, is available on a free transfer after leaving the Blues following a highly-successful eight-year spell in West London.
He already has a number of clubs chasing his services as he weighs-up his future with Arsenal joining the chase last week. Now Leicester are plotting a swoop for the ex-Bolton veteran. However, they face competition from several other Premier League outfits. West Ham are also keen while Roy Hodgson would love to bring the veteran to Crystal Palace.
Cahill is determined to remain in the top-flight and he is also believed to be aiming to stay in London. That could rule out his old team Aston Villa, who are also interested in the centre-half. But the opportunity of regular first-team football could prove key, and he is most-likely to get that at Villa Park.
The Sun
Manchester United's £70m Harry Maguire bid rejected by Leicester
Talks between both Manchester clubs and Leicester have been ongoing for several weeks
Leicester have turned down Manchester United's £70m bid for Harry Maguire, Sky Sports News understands.
United moved ahead of rivals Manchester City in the chase for the England defender by increasing their offer from the initial £65m that both clubs had indicated they would be happy to pay a fortnight ago. But Leicester have made it clear they are not interested in selling at that price, especially after seeing United pay £50m for Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who they feel cannot compare to Maguire in proven international quality and experience.
Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, Leicester's owner, would need to personally sign off any deal for Maguire, who still has four years left on his contract and is seen as a key asset in their squad.
Maguire - along with all of the club's other international players - was not in the group who returned to begin Leicester's pre-season training schedule on Monday at their Belvoir Drive training complex. It is not yet known if the England defender will join his team-mates on Sunday when they head to Évian-les-Bains for six days of training in the French Alps.
United's chances of landing Maguire may be influenced by City defender Nicolas Otamendi, who was expected to leave the Etihad this summer for Atletico Madrid. However, he may reconsider his decision after the departure of Vincent Kompany. Leicester's position has always been that they have no desire or need to sell and would only consider a bid in excess of the £75m world-record fee paid by Liverpool for Virgil van Dijk.
However, they will welcome the prospect of two big clubs bidding against each other for one of their prized assets.
Sky Sports
Talks between both Manchester clubs and Leicester have been ongoing for several weeks
Leicester have turned down Manchester United's £70m bid for Harry Maguire, Sky Sports News understands.
United moved ahead of rivals Manchester City in the chase for the England defender by increasing their offer from the initial £65m that both clubs had indicated they would be happy to pay a fortnight ago. But Leicester have made it clear they are not interested in selling at that price, especially after seeing United pay £50m for Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who they feel cannot compare to Maguire in proven international quality and experience.
Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, Leicester's owner, would need to personally sign off any deal for Maguire, who still has four years left on his contract and is seen as a key asset in their squad.
Maguire - along with all of the club's other international players - was not in the group who returned to begin Leicester's pre-season training schedule on Monday at their Belvoir Drive training complex. It is not yet known if the England defender will join his team-mates on Sunday when they head to Évian-les-Bains for six days of training in the French Alps.
United's chances of landing Maguire may be influenced by City defender Nicolas Otamendi, who was expected to leave the Etihad this summer for Atletico Madrid. However, he may reconsider his decision after the departure of Vincent Kompany. Leicester's position has always been that they have no desire or need to sell and would only consider a bid in excess of the £75m world-record fee paid by Liverpool for Virgil van Dijk.
However, they will welcome the prospect of two big clubs bidding against each other for one of their prized assets.
Sky Sports
Leicester complete signing of James Justin from Luton
Leicester have completed the signing of James Justin from Luton on a five-year contract.
Sky Sports News understands the transfer fee for the right-back could rise to £8m.
The Foxes beat off competition from other Premier League clubs, including Aston Villa, to land Justin, who was named in the Sky Bet League One team of the year last season as Luton secured promotion to the Championship.
The 21-year-old is Brendan Rodgers' first signing as Leicester boss since taking over at the King Power stadium in February. "I'm over the moon. I feel like I'm ready for this moment. I hope to bring a lot of energy and commitment to the badge," Justin told LCFC.com.
"The manager is great with the younger players and developing them through their careers. Everyone speaks very highly of him and I hope he can help me too."
Justin made 52 appearances for Luton last season as they won League One and completed back-to-back promotions in the process.
He will join up with his new Leicester team-mates on Monday as they begin preparations for the new Premier League season.
Sky Sports News
Leicester have completed the signing of James Justin from Luton on a five-year contract.
Sky Sports News understands the transfer fee for the right-back could rise to £8m.
The Foxes beat off competition from other Premier League clubs, including Aston Villa, to land Justin, who was named in the Sky Bet League One team of the year last season as Luton secured promotion to the Championship.
The 21-year-old is Brendan Rodgers' first signing as Leicester boss since taking over at the King Power stadium in February. "I'm over the moon. I feel like I'm ready for this moment. I hope to bring a lot of energy and commitment to the badge," Justin told LCFC.com.
"The manager is great with the younger players and developing them through their careers. Everyone speaks very highly of him and I hope he can help me too."
Justin made 52 appearances for Luton last season as they won League One and completed back-to-back promotions in the process.
He will join up with his new Leicester team-mates on Monday as they begin preparations for the new Premier League season.
Sky Sports News
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers to make first Foxes signing as he signs £10m James Justin from Luton
BRENDAN RODGERS will make his first Leicester City signing when James Justin completes a medical today. Rodgers won the race to sign right-back Justin from Luton Town for £10million after rivals Aston Villa and Crystal Palace concentrated on other deals.
The Foxes boss wants Justin, 21, to compete with Ricardo Pereira following Danny Simpson’s release. Hatters head of recruitment Mick Harford said earlier this week that they would only sell if it was beneficial to the club. "The biggest priority is the football club, not an individual at the football club, not a football player, it is the benefit of the football club. "If it benefits us to sell James Justin, then James will be sold, but it's a case of someone putting in the right bid."
Another Leicester youngster, Alex Pascanu, is interesting a QUARTER of the Premier League after his Euro Under-21 displays. The centre-back, 20, who helped Romania see off England on their way to the semi-finals, had FIVE top-flight clubs asking about him in this window. Leicester triggered their option on his contract but he still has only a year left on his deal.
The Sun
BRENDAN RODGERS will make his first Leicester City signing when James Justin completes a medical today. Rodgers won the race to sign right-back Justin from Luton Town for £10million after rivals Aston Villa and Crystal Palace concentrated on other deals.
The Foxes boss wants Justin, 21, to compete with Ricardo Pereira following Danny Simpson’s release. Hatters head of recruitment Mick Harford said earlier this week that they would only sell if it was beneficial to the club. "The biggest priority is the football club, not an individual at the football club, not a football player, it is the benefit of the football club. "If it benefits us to sell James Justin, then James will be sold, but it's a case of someone putting in the right bid."
Another Leicester youngster, Alex Pascanu, is interesting a QUARTER of the Premier League after his Euro Under-21 displays. The centre-back, 20, who helped Romania see off England on their way to the semi-finals, had FIVE top-flight clubs asking about him in this window. Leicester triggered their option on his contract but he still has only a year left on his deal.
The Sun
Harvey Barnes Signs New Five-Year Deal With Leicester City
Academy graduate Harvey Barnes has signed a new five-year deal with Leicester City Football Club, keeping him at King Power Stadium until at least June 2024.
The exciting midfielder has enjoyed a highly successful year, having established himself as a regular in the First Team following an eye-catching loan spell in the Sky Bet Championship with West Bromwich Albion.
His first Premier League goal came at the London Stadium in April 2019 as he hit a stoppage time equaliser against West Ham United – form that earned him a place in the England Under-21s squad for the upcoming UEFA European Championships. Speaking to LCFC TV, Barnes said: “I’m delighted. For me, the progression that I’ve had at the Club, from joining at such an early age to the position I’m in now, is something I want to continue, so when a new contract was mentioned, it was a no brainer.
“There’s going to be a lot of work going in over pre-season, and I think as a team we’re really strong at the minute, so next year could be a big year for us.”
Barnes joined Leicester City’s Academy at the age of nine and has steadily risen through the ranks to firmly establish himself as one of the most exciting young talents in England. He made his debut for the First Team at FC Porto in the UEFA Champions League in December 2016, before joining MK Dons on loan for the second half of the 2016/17 season, where he scored five goals in 23 appearances for the League 1 outfit.
At the end of the campaign, he was voted Development Squad Player of the Season for Leicester City and Young Player of the Season by MK Dons. That summer he also won the Toulon Tournament with England Under-20s and was joint recipient of the Golden Boot award, having scored four goals in the competition. Barnes continued his development on loan at Championship side Barnsley in 2017/18, scoring five goals in 25 appearances, before being recalled by the Foxes in January. He made his domestic debut for City against Fleetwood Town in the Third Round of the Emirates FA Cup that same month, before making his Premier League debut against Southampton in April 2018.
In the summer of 2018, Barnes joined West Bromwich Albion on loan, where he scored nine times in 26 appearances for the Baggies, establishing himself as a fan favourite, before being recalled once again in January. He went on to make 16 appearances for the Foxes during their 2018/19 campaign, scoring his first Premier League goal in April - a last-gasp equaliser in the Club's 2-2 draw with West Ham United at London Stadium.
Barnes is one of four Foxes players to be named in the England Under-21s squad for this summer’s UEFA European U21 Championship Finals. The tournament gets underway in Italy on Monday, with England Under-21s’ first group stage fixture against France set for Tuesday.
LCFC.COM
Academy graduate Harvey Barnes has signed a new five-year deal with Leicester City Football Club, keeping him at King Power Stadium until at least June 2024.
The exciting midfielder has enjoyed a highly successful year, having established himself as a regular in the First Team following an eye-catching loan spell in the Sky Bet Championship with West Bromwich Albion.
His first Premier League goal came at the London Stadium in April 2019 as he hit a stoppage time equaliser against West Ham United – form that earned him a place in the England Under-21s squad for the upcoming UEFA European Championships. Speaking to LCFC TV, Barnes said: “I’m delighted. For me, the progression that I’ve had at the Club, from joining at such an early age to the position I’m in now, is something I want to continue, so when a new contract was mentioned, it was a no brainer.
“There’s going to be a lot of work going in over pre-season, and I think as a team we’re really strong at the minute, so next year could be a big year for us.”
Barnes joined Leicester City’s Academy at the age of nine and has steadily risen through the ranks to firmly establish himself as one of the most exciting young talents in England. He made his debut for the First Team at FC Porto in the UEFA Champions League in December 2016, before joining MK Dons on loan for the second half of the 2016/17 season, where he scored five goals in 23 appearances for the League 1 outfit.
At the end of the campaign, he was voted Development Squad Player of the Season for Leicester City and Young Player of the Season by MK Dons. That summer he also won the Toulon Tournament with England Under-20s and was joint recipient of the Golden Boot award, having scored four goals in the competition. Barnes continued his development on loan at Championship side Barnsley in 2017/18, scoring five goals in 25 appearances, before being recalled by the Foxes in January. He made his domestic debut for City against Fleetwood Town in the Third Round of the Emirates FA Cup that same month, before making his Premier League debut against Southampton in April 2018.
In the summer of 2018, Barnes joined West Bromwich Albion on loan, where he scored nine times in 26 appearances for the Baggies, establishing himself as a fan favourite, before being recalled once again in January. He went on to make 16 appearances for the Foxes during their 2018/19 campaign, scoring his first Premier League goal in April - a last-gasp equaliser in the Club's 2-2 draw with West Ham United at London Stadium.
Barnes is one of four Foxes players to be named in the England Under-21s squad for this summer’s UEFA European U21 Championship Finals. The tournament gets underway in Italy on Monday, with England Under-21s’ first group stage fixture against France set for Tuesday.
LCFC.COM
Lee Congerton follows Brendan Rodgers to Leicester as head of recruitment
Leicester have appointed Celtic's head of recruitment Lee Congerton to the same role in a move that reunites him with Brendan Rodgers.
Congerton was being considered for the role of sporting director at Celtic Park, and Sky Sports News understands he also had offers from a number of clubs in Europe, but the 45-year-old has decided instead to work again with Rodgers. It is a move that will further anger Celtic supporters, who voiced their animosity towards Rodgers when he left the club when they were on the verge of an historic Treble-Treble.
Congerton had been linked with a move to Anderlecht, while two MLS clubs also tried to hire the Scottish Champions' highly-rated chief talent spotter. The Welshman first worked with Brendan Rodgers at Chelsea in 2005. He was appointed chief scout by then director of football Frank Arnesen, with Rodgers acting as reserve-team coach.
After similar roles at Hamburg and Sunderland, Congerton joined up with Rodgers at Celtic two years ago. He has been credited with bringing a host of talented young players to Celtic Park including Odsonne Edouard, Timothy Weah and Oliver Ntcham. A statement on Celtic's website says: "Everyone at Celtic would like to thank Lee for his contribution to the club and we wish him the very best for the future.
"The existing staff within Celtic's scouting and recruitment department will continue to work closely with club management on the identification of players who can benefit the club. "The club has already commenced the process to appoint a new Head of Recruitment, something which will be completed as soon as possible.
Sky Sports
Leicester have appointed Celtic's head of recruitment Lee Congerton to the same role in a move that reunites him with Brendan Rodgers.
Congerton was being considered for the role of sporting director at Celtic Park, and Sky Sports News understands he also had offers from a number of clubs in Europe, but the 45-year-old has decided instead to work again with Rodgers. It is a move that will further anger Celtic supporters, who voiced their animosity towards Rodgers when he left the club when they were on the verge of an historic Treble-Treble.
Congerton had been linked with a move to Anderlecht, while two MLS clubs also tried to hire the Scottish Champions' highly-rated chief talent spotter. The Welshman first worked with Brendan Rodgers at Chelsea in 2005. He was appointed chief scout by then director of football Frank Arnesen, with Rodgers acting as reserve-team coach.
After similar roles at Hamburg and Sunderland, Congerton joined up with Rodgers at Celtic two years ago. He has been credited with bringing a host of talented young players to Celtic Park including Odsonne Edouard, Timothy Weah and Oliver Ntcham. A statement on Celtic's website says: "Everyone at Celtic would like to thank Lee for his contribution to the club and we wish him the very best for the future.
"The existing staff within Celtic's scouting and recruitment department will continue to work closely with club management on the identification of players who can benefit the club. "The club has already commenced the process to appoint a new Head of Recruitment, something which will be completed as soon as possible.
Sky Sports
Leicester 0-0 Chelsea: Finishing costs both sides in goalless draw
Poor finishing cost Leicester and Chelsea a win, as the two sides played out a 0-0 draw in the final game of the season.
Ross Barkley should have opened the scoring early on for Chelsea when Jorginho chipped the ball over the Leicester defence for his fellow midfielder to run onto but his fierce shot was blocked by Kasper Schmeichel's chest.
Cesar Azpilicueta slipped not once, but twice, to allow Jamie Vardy a run through on goal but when the crunch moment came he sent a poor pass to Youri Tielemans, who could not fashion a meaningful chance from a poor angle, allowing Willy Caballero the chance to save.
The best chance of the opening period fell to Gonzalo Higuain after fine work between Willian and Marcos Alonso allowed the latter to send a pass across the six-yard box but the Argentine bungled the opportunity with the goal gaping.
There were fond farewells for Leicester as Shinji Okazaki and Danny Simpson were brought on for their final appearances, much to the appreciation of the home supporters.
For Chelsea, Eden Hazard eventually came on in the second half, potentially for the last time as rumours about his future continue. Tielemans had the chance to win the match late on when he found space on the edge of the area but he smashed a wayward shot high and wide.
The second half had a relaxed feel to it, with a lack of quality in the final third. The point confirmed Chelsea's third-placed finish, as Tottenham also drew on the final day.
Sky Sports
Poor finishing cost Leicester and Chelsea a win, as the two sides played out a 0-0 draw in the final game of the season.
Ross Barkley should have opened the scoring early on for Chelsea when Jorginho chipped the ball over the Leicester defence for his fellow midfielder to run onto but his fierce shot was blocked by Kasper Schmeichel's chest.
Cesar Azpilicueta slipped not once, but twice, to allow Jamie Vardy a run through on goal but when the crunch moment came he sent a poor pass to Youri Tielemans, who could not fashion a meaningful chance from a poor angle, allowing Willy Caballero the chance to save.
The best chance of the opening period fell to Gonzalo Higuain after fine work between Willian and Marcos Alonso allowed the latter to send a pass across the six-yard box but the Argentine bungled the opportunity with the goal gaping.
There were fond farewells for Leicester as Shinji Okazaki and Danny Simpson were brought on for their final appearances, much to the appreciation of the home supporters.
For Chelsea, Eden Hazard eventually came on in the second half, potentially for the last time as rumours about his future continue. Tielemans had the chance to win the match late on when he found space on the edge of the area but he smashed a wayward shot high and wide.
The second half had a relaxed feel to it, with a lack of quality in the final third. The point confirmed Chelsea's third-placed finish, as Tottenham also drew on the final day.
Sky Sports
Youri Tielemans expects Monaco return after Leicester loan
Youri Tielemans says he expects to return to Monaco this summer following his loan at Leicester.
The Belgium midfielder is set to play his last game for the Foxes against Chelsea on Sunday, having joined on loan in January until the end of the season.
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers has said he is keen to land the 22-year-old on a permanent deal when the transfer window reopens in June, but reports claim there is interest from other Premier League sides including Tottenham.
Yet Tielemans told Belgian publication VTMNieuws: "I expect that I will return to Monaco in the summer, unless something's moving. Youri Tielemans signed for Monaco in a £21m deal from Anderlecht in 2017"At the moment there's nothing. If things are going well you want to keep it like that. I don't know what Monaco will be asking, so I can't talk about it."
Tielemans - a regular Belgium international - has been instrumental in Leicester's improvement under Rodgers in the second half of the campaign, scoring three times in 12 games. He signed for Monaco in a £21m deal from Anderlecht in 2017 and made 35 appearances for the Ligue 1 club in his first season, but fell out of favour after Monaco sacked Leonardo Jardim and replaced him with Thierry Henry.
Henry has since been sacked himself and Jardim has returned to the dugout in Monte Carlo, which could breathe fresh hope into the continuation of Tielemans' Monaco career.
Sky Sports
Youri Tielemans says he expects to return to Monaco this summer following his loan at Leicester.
The Belgium midfielder is set to play his last game for the Foxes against Chelsea on Sunday, having joined on loan in January until the end of the season.
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers has said he is keen to land the 22-year-old on a permanent deal when the transfer window reopens in June, but reports claim there is interest from other Premier League sides including Tottenham.
Yet Tielemans told Belgian publication VTMNieuws: "I expect that I will return to Monaco in the summer, unless something's moving. Youri Tielemans signed for Monaco in a £21m deal from Anderlecht in 2017"At the moment there's nothing. If things are going well you want to keep it like that. I don't know what Monaco will be asking, so I can't talk about it."
Tielemans - a regular Belgium international - has been instrumental in Leicester's improvement under Rodgers in the second half of the campaign, scoring three times in 12 games. He signed for Monaco in a £21m deal from Anderlecht in 2017 and made 35 appearances for the Ligue 1 club in his first season, but fell out of favour after Monaco sacked Leonardo Jardim and replaced him with Thierry Henry.
Henry has since been sacked himself and Jardim has returned to the dugout in Monte Carlo, which could breathe fresh hope into the continuation of Tielemans' Monaco career.
Sky Sports
Leicester midfielder Hamza Choudhury fined for controversial historical tweets
Leicester midfielder Hamza Choudhury has been fined £5,000 and ordered to attend an education course due to historical comments on social media, the Football Association has announced.
The FA said his comments constituted an "aggravated breach" as they included reference to ethnic origin and/or race and/or sexual orientation.
The 21-year-old wrote the messages in 2013 and 2014 and apologised for them last week, when he was charged with misconduct by the governing body.
"Hamza Choudhury has been fined £5,000 and ordered to attend an FA education course by an Independent Regulatory Commission after he admitted to an "aggravated breach" of FA Rule E3(1)," said an FA statement.
"Comments posted by the Leicester City player on social media between June 20, 2013 and May 10, 2014, which included reference to ethnic origin and/or race and/or sexual orientation, were found to be abusive and/or insulting and/or improper and/or brought the game into disrepute.
"The midfielder was also warned as to his future conduct."
Sky Sports
Leicester midfielder Hamza Choudhury has been fined £5,000 and ordered to attend an education course due to historical comments on social media, the Football Association has announced.
The FA said his comments constituted an "aggravated breach" as they included reference to ethnic origin and/or race and/or sexual orientation.
The 21-year-old wrote the messages in 2013 and 2014 and apologised for them last week, when he was charged with misconduct by the governing body.
"Hamza Choudhury has been fined £5,000 and ordered to attend an FA education course by an Independent Regulatory Commission after he admitted to an "aggravated breach" of FA Rule E3(1)," said an FA statement.
"Comments posted by the Leicester City player on social media between June 20, 2013 and May 10, 2014, which included reference to ethnic origin and/or race and/or sexual orientation, were found to be abusive and/or insulting and/or improper and/or brought the game into disrepute.
"The midfielder was also warned as to his future conduct."
Sky Sports
Christian Fuchs Pens Leicester City Contract Extension
The popular 33-year-old Austrian has been a significant figure for the Foxes since his arrival from Germany in the summer of 2015, going on to make 118 appearances in Leicester City colours at left-back.
His performances and reliability endeared him to City supporters as he played a key role in both Leicester City’s 2015/16 Premier League title win and subsequent UEFA Champions League run in 2016/17.
Speaking to LCFC.com, Fuchs said: “I’m thrilled to be signing a new one-year deal with Leicester City Football Club. It’s an exciting time for everyone, with a new training ground being built and some fantastic young talent coming through.
“Our ambition is to play good football and continue to improve. The Club and our fans have always been great with me and I want to give back as much as possible. I can’t wait to see what next season brings for this Football Club!”
Fuchs, a former captain of his native Austria with 78 caps at international level, played for five seasons in the German Bundesliga in the colours of FSV Mainz and Schalke before heading to City on a free transfer.
He has scored several stunning goals for the Foxes – including memorable strikes against Crystal Palace and Fleetwood Town – as well as providing a number of assists. The most notable of those came from a ‘no-look’ pass for Jamie Vardy to complete his record goal scoring feat against Manchester United in 2016.
Alongside his performances on the pitch, Fuchs has earned a place in the hearts of City fans through his willingness to engage on social media and appetite for taking part in the Club’s many community initiatives during his time as a Fox.
LCFC.COM
The popular 33-year-old Austrian has been a significant figure for the Foxes since his arrival from Germany in the summer of 2015, going on to make 118 appearances in Leicester City colours at left-back.
His performances and reliability endeared him to City supporters as he played a key role in both Leicester City’s 2015/16 Premier League title win and subsequent UEFA Champions League run in 2016/17.
Speaking to LCFC.com, Fuchs said: “I’m thrilled to be signing a new one-year deal with Leicester City Football Club. It’s an exciting time for everyone, with a new training ground being built and some fantastic young talent coming through.
“Our ambition is to play good football and continue to improve. The Club and our fans have always been great with me and I want to give back as much as possible. I can’t wait to see what next season brings for this Football Club!”
Fuchs, a former captain of his native Austria with 78 caps at international level, played for five seasons in the German Bundesliga in the colours of FSV Mainz and Schalke before heading to City on a free transfer.
He has scored several stunning goals for the Foxes – including memorable strikes against Crystal Palace and Fleetwood Town – as well as providing a number of assists. The most notable of those came from a ‘no-look’ pass for Jamie Vardy to complete his record goal scoring feat against Manchester United in 2016.
Alongside his performances on the pitch, Fuchs has earned a place in the hearts of City fans through his willingness to engage on social media and appetite for taking part in the Club’s many community initiatives during his time as a Fox.
LCFC.COM
Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy has been announced as the winner of the EA SPORTS Premier League Player of the Month award for April!
The 32-year-old beat off competition from Eden Hazard (Chelsea), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Aymeric Laporte (Manchester City), Shane Long (Southampton), Ayoze Pérez (Newcastle United), Mo Salah (Liverpool) and Chris Wood (Burnley) to win the public vote.
During a sensational month of personal form, Vardy netted in all but one of his four appearances in April, scoring five goals, taking his overall tally up to 18 in the 2018/19 season. Also helping Brendan Rodgers' men secure seven points from a possible 12 over April, the Club's all-time Premier League top goalscorer is now on 100 league goals for the Club - including his efforts in the Championship.
His first strike in April was a brilliant team goal during a 4-1 win at Huddersfield Town, before the former Fleetwood Town striker added another from the penalty spot at John Smith's Stadium. Bagging City's first of a 2-2 draw at West Ham United, cutting across the Hammers defence to latch onto Ben Chilwell's low cross, Vardy's lethal touch was on show again in the capital.
Meanwhile, during a dominant 3-0 success over Arsenal, Vardy struck another brace - meaning he has now scored eight goals against the North London side in the Premier League. He has also been nominated for the PFA Bristol Street Motors Player of the Month award in April and, while voting is now closed, the winner will be announced later this month.
LCFC.COM
The 32-year-old beat off competition from Eden Hazard (Chelsea), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Aymeric Laporte (Manchester City), Shane Long (Southampton), Ayoze Pérez (Newcastle United), Mo Salah (Liverpool) and Chris Wood (Burnley) to win the public vote.
During a sensational month of personal form, Vardy netted in all but one of his four appearances in April, scoring five goals, taking his overall tally up to 18 in the 2018/19 season. Also helping Brendan Rodgers' men secure seven points from a possible 12 over April, the Club's all-time Premier League top goalscorer is now on 100 league goals for the Club - including his efforts in the Championship.
His first strike in April was a brilliant team goal during a 4-1 win at Huddersfield Town, before the former Fleetwood Town striker added another from the penalty spot at John Smith's Stadium. Bagging City's first of a 2-2 draw at West Ham United, cutting across the Hammers defence to latch onto Ben Chilwell's low cross, Vardy's lethal touch was on show again in the capital.
Meanwhile, during a dominant 3-0 success over Arsenal, Vardy struck another brace - meaning he has now scored eight goals against the North London side in the Premier League. He has also been nominated for the PFA Bristol Street Motors Player of the Month award in April and, while voting is now closed, the winner will be announced later this month.
LCFC.COM
Manchester City 1-0 Leicester City
Vincent Kompany's wonder strike gives Manchester all three points in the battle of two cities
Manchester City know they will retain their Premier League title if they win on the final day of the season after Vincent Kompany's wonder strike saw off a spirited Leicester side.
With 20 minutes remaining, the score goalless and nerves jangling at Etihad Stadium, the defending champions needed inspiration in a game where only victory would maintain their initiative at the top of the table. They got it from an unlikely source in their long-serving captain, who strode forward and let fly from 25 yards with a strike that arrowed into the top corner of the net.
City's victory means they move back above Liverpool and hold a one-point lead as they go into the last round of fixtures on Sunday, when Pep Guardiola's side travel to Brighton and the Reds host Wolves.After they had to fight so hard to gain victory here, it is unlikely City will take anything for granted as a pulsating title race reaches its climax.
The lead at the the top of the table has now changed hands 32 times this season, but for long spells on Monday night it seemed Liverpool would be staying in top spot until the weekend at least.Managed by former Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers, who came so close to bringing the title to Anfield in 2014, Leicester were resolute defensively and posed a significant threat at the other end.
They restricted Guardiola's famously free-scoring side to a handful of first-half chances, with Sergio Aguero's header against the bar the closest they came to breaking the deadlock. City's frustration on the pitch and in the stands continued after the break until Kompany stepped up in spectacular fashion to score his first goal of the season, and his side's 158th.
Leicester did threaten to ruin the party late on but former City striker Kelechi Iheanacho fired wide, and the final whistle brought cascades of relief for the home players and fans as they moved to within one win of their sixth title. If the defending champions beat Brighton in their final fixture they will amass 98 points and cannot be caught by the Merseyside club. City would also become the first club to secure back-to-back Premier League titles since rivals Manchester United in 2007-08 and 2008-09.
BBC
Vincent Kompany's wonder strike gives Manchester all three points in the battle of two cities
Manchester City know they will retain their Premier League title if they win on the final day of the season after Vincent Kompany's wonder strike saw off a spirited Leicester side.
With 20 minutes remaining, the score goalless and nerves jangling at Etihad Stadium, the defending champions needed inspiration in a game where only victory would maintain their initiative at the top of the table. They got it from an unlikely source in their long-serving captain, who strode forward and let fly from 25 yards with a strike that arrowed into the top corner of the net.
City's victory means they move back above Liverpool and hold a one-point lead as they go into the last round of fixtures on Sunday, when Pep Guardiola's side travel to Brighton and the Reds host Wolves.After they had to fight so hard to gain victory here, it is unlikely City will take anything for granted as a pulsating title race reaches its climax.
The lead at the the top of the table has now changed hands 32 times this season, but for long spells on Monday night it seemed Liverpool would be staying in top spot until the weekend at least.Managed by former Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers, who came so close to bringing the title to Anfield in 2014, Leicester were resolute defensively and posed a significant threat at the other end.
They restricted Guardiola's famously free-scoring side to a handful of first-half chances, with Sergio Aguero's header against the bar the closest they came to breaking the deadlock. City's frustration on the pitch and in the stands continued after the break until Kompany stepped up in spectacular fashion to score his first goal of the season, and his side's 158th.
Leicester did threaten to ruin the party late on but former City striker Kelechi Iheanacho fired wide, and the final whistle brought cascades of relief for the home players and fans as they moved to within one win of their sixth title. If the defending champions beat Brighton in their final fixture they will amass 98 points and cannot be caught by the Merseyside club. City would also become the first club to secure back-to-back Premier League titles since rivals Manchester United in 2007-08 and 2008-09.
BBC
Leicester's Hamza Choudhury charged with misconduct over social media comments
Leicester midfielder Hamza Choudhury has been charged with misconduct in relation to comments made on social media in 2013 and 2014.
The 21-year-old posted a number of tweets in 2013 and 2014, some with racial references and another in which he criticised women's football. Choudhury has since apologised for his remarks and appears to have deactivated his Twitter account.
It is alleged that the comments breach FA Rule E3(1) as they were abusive and/or insulting and/or improper and/or brought the game into disrepute. It is further alleged that the comments constitute an 'Aggravated Breach', which is defined in FA Rule E3(2), as they included reference to ethnic origin and/or race and/or sexual orientation.
The midfielder has until May 13 to provide a response. Choudhury, who has made 19 appearances for Leicester, will not be subject to any further disciplinary action from the club.
Sky Sports
Leicester midfielder Hamza Choudhury has been charged with misconduct in relation to comments made on social media in 2013 and 2014.
The 21-year-old posted a number of tweets in 2013 and 2014, some with racial references and another in which he criticised women's football. Choudhury has since apologised for his remarks and appears to have deactivated his Twitter account.
It is alleged that the comments breach FA Rule E3(1) as they were abusive and/or insulting and/or improper and/or brought the game into disrepute. It is further alleged that the comments constitute an 'Aggravated Breach', which is defined in FA Rule E3(2), as they included reference to ethnic origin and/or race and/or sexual orientation.
The midfielder has until May 13 to provide a response. Choudhury, who has made 19 appearances for Leicester, will not be subject to any further disciplinary action from the club.
Sky Sports
