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Leicester closing in on first signing 62 days after window opened with free transfer move for Alex Smithies
Goalkeeper Alex Smithies has signed a two-year contract with Leicester City, it is being reported.
The 32 year-old is currently a free agent after leaving Cardiff City and confirmation of his arrival at the King Power Stadium is expected "soon".
That's according to journalist Fabrizio Romano, who says Smithies completed his medical this afternoon (Thursday) and has penned a deal until the summer of 2024. Smithies, who has also played for Huddersfield Town and Queens Park Rangers, arrives with over 460 career appearances to his name.
It was reported earlier in the day that Smithies was "in talks" with City after spending time on trial with Premier League rivals Bournemouth. Despite his experience, he has never played in the top flight and, though he is on the verge of being unveiled as a City player, that could be something that continues.
Smithies will be Brendan Rodgers' third-choice goalkeeper when he arrives at the King Power Stadium, sitting behind Danny Ward and Daniel Iversen in the pecking order. He will play a similar role to Eldin Jakupovic, supporting the two other goalkeepers through the week and being a steady hand to call upon if needed.
His arrival will allow young stopper Jakub Stolarczyk to go out on loan, with a club lined up for the Poland youth international. League One side Fleetwood have been linked.
Leicestershire Live
Goalkeeper Alex Smithies has signed a two-year contract with Leicester City, it is being reported.
The 32 year-old is currently a free agent after leaving Cardiff City and confirmation of his arrival at the King Power Stadium is expected "soon".
That's according to journalist Fabrizio Romano, who says Smithies completed his medical this afternoon (Thursday) and has penned a deal until the summer of 2024. Smithies, who has also played for Huddersfield Town and Queens Park Rangers, arrives with over 460 career appearances to his name.
It was reported earlier in the day that Smithies was "in talks" with City after spending time on trial with Premier League rivals Bournemouth. Despite his experience, he has never played in the top flight and, though he is on the verge of being unveiled as a City player, that could be something that continues.
Smithies will be Brendan Rodgers' third-choice goalkeeper when he arrives at the King Power Stadium, sitting behind Danny Ward and Daniel Iversen in the pecking order. He will play a similar role to Eldin Jakupovic, supporting the two other goalkeepers through the week and being a steady hand to call upon if needed.
His arrival will allow young stopper Jakub Stolarczyk to go out on loan, with a club lined up for the Poland youth international. League One side Fleetwood have been linked.
Leicestershire Live
Leicester City confirm midfielder transfer as club look to push on with outgoings
Homegrown midfielder Hamza Choudhury has joined Watford in the Championship on a season-long loan after making just eight Premier League starts over the past two seasons
Hamza Choudhury may have played his final game for Leicester City after joining Championship side Watford on a season-long loan.
The defensive midfielder will link up with the Hornets for the campaign, Watford winning a battle with West Brom, the Baggies’ boss Steve Bruce a long-term admirer of Choudhury. He has long been linked with a City exit and twice nearly moved to Newcastle in deadline-day moves in recent transfer windows.
His game-time at the King Power Stadium has dwindled in the past few years, the 24-year-old making just eight Premier League starts over the past two seasons, while he has not played in any of the club’s last 15 matches in all competitions. At the weekend, against Brentford, he did not even make the substitutes' bench.
Choudhury’s move is one of several exits City hope to organise before the end of the transfer window. Moving players on and creating space on their wage bill may give them the opportunity to make some signings, with the club the only side in Europe’s top five leagues yet to bring in a new recruit.
He is the third senior player to leave the club this summer. Eldin Jakupovic was released at the end of his deal in June, while captain Kasper Schmeichel left for Nice last week.
There is an option to buy in his loan deal and if taken up, he could be back in the Premier League with Watford next season, with the Hornets the favourites for promotion under new manager Rob Edwards. They have started the season with four points from six.
In total, Choudhury has made 84 appearances for City since his debut under Craig Shakespeare in 2017. He has scored two goals for the club, against Newcastle and AEK Athens.
Leicestershire Live
Homegrown midfielder Hamza Choudhury has joined Watford in the Championship on a season-long loan after making just eight Premier League starts over the past two seasons
Hamza Choudhury may have played his final game for Leicester City after joining Championship side Watford on a season-long loan.
The defensive midfielder will link up with the Hornets for the campaign, Watford winning a battle with West Brom, the Baggies’ boss Steve Bruce a long-term admirer of Choudhury. He has long been linked with a City exit and twice nearly moved to Newcastle in deadline-day moves in recent transfer windows.
His game-time at the King Power Stadium has dwindled in the past few years, the 24-year-old making just eight Premier League starts over the past two seasons, while he has not played in any of the club’s last 15 matches in all competitions. At the weekend, against Brentford, he did not even make the substitutes' bench.
Choudhury’s move is one of several exits City hope to organise before the end of the transfer window. Moving players on and creating space on their wage bill may give them the opportunity to make some signings, with the club the only side in Europe’s top five leagues yet to bring in a new recruit.
He is the third senior player to leave the club this summer. Eldin Jakupovic was released at the end of his deal in June, while captain Kasper Schmeichel left for Nice last week.
There is an option to buy in his loan deal and if taken up, he could be back in the Premier League with Watford next season, with the Hornets the favourites for promotion under new manager Rob Edwards. They have started the season with four points from six.
In total, Choudhury has made 84 appearances for City since his debut under Craig Shakespeare in 2017. He has scored two goals for the club, against Newcastle and AEK Athens.
Leicestershire Live
Leicester City put defender 'up for sale' as price tag revealed
Leicester City are prepared to offload Jannik Vestergaard for £12million this summer, according to reports.
However, the Denmark international would apparently prefer a loan move, having only joined the Foxes last season, says the Daily Mail. He is keen to secure valuable game time to boost his chances of making an appearance in this year's World Cup.
Despite being a regular player for Southampton before his move to the King Power, he has started just six games for Brendan Rodgers, making a total of 20 outings in his first season. Although Fulham were said to be interested in the signing of the experienced player, they have since opted to sign Issa Diop from West Ham, with a £15million transfer set to be completed.
Regarding his World Cup chances this winter, Denmark national team boss Kasper Hjulmand said earlier this summer: "The next few days are spent talking to the players about it, about why there is a big responsibility for them individually in the autumn.
"Because we are not together, we need to be as sharp and prepared as possible. The responsibility rests with the players at home in their clubs until we meet in November.
"I do not have a formula because there is no formula for it. But playing time is important.
There are some who have been out for so long that it certainly cannot happen again. When you have been out for so long, there can not be another six months where you do not play."
Vestergaard is under contract at City until 2024.
LeicestershireLive
Leicester City are prepared to offload Jannik Vestergaard for £12million this summer, according to reports.
However, the Denmark international would apparently prefer a loan move, having only joined the Foxes last season, says the Daily Mail. He is keen to secure valuable game time to boost his chances of making an appearance in this year's World Cup.
Despite being a regular player for Southampton before his move to the King Power, he has started just six games for Brendan Rodgers, making a total of 20 outings in his first season. Although Fulham were said to be interested in the signing of the experienced player, they have since opted to sign Issa Diop from West Ham, with a £15million transfer set to be completed.
Regarding his World Cup chances this winter, Denmark national team boss Kasper Hjulmand said earlier this summer: "The next few days are spent talking to the players about it, about why there is a big responsibility for them individually in the autumn.
"Because we are not together, we need to be as sharp and prepared as possible. The responsibility rests with the players at home in their clubs until we meet in November.
"I do not have a formula because there is no formula for it. But playing time is important.
There are some who have been out for so long that it certainly cannot happen again. When you have been out for so long, there can not be another six months where you do not play."
Vestergaard is under contract at City until 2024.
LeicestershireLive
Leicester City 2-2 Brentford
Bees sting late to wound hungry Foxes
Leicester City and Brentford treated the King Power Stadium to an absolute thriller in their season opener. The Foxes failed to secure a third successive H2H league win this century, succumbing to a late equaliser to draw 2-2.
Attempting to avoid a case of second-season syndrome after punching above their weight in their first ever PL season, Brentford started with enough belief to land themselves a top-half finish this time around.
However, their advances did not bother the hosts, who came close twice within the first 20 minutes, first via Youri Tielemans’ long range effort denied masterfully by David Raya, before James Maddison missed a header from inside the box.
Making up for his earlier miss, Maddison turned provider with an inch-perfect corner kick minutes later as he curled a beauty right into the path of Timothy Castagne, who headed home the opener. Despite a positive reaction from the Bees, Brendan Rodgers’ side looked rather unsatisfied with their one-goal lead as they charged on for a second. Pushing the visitors on their heels, Tielemans struck a low thunderbolt that came off the bottom post to keep things as it was going into the break.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall made sure things were not going to stay the same for Thomas Frank’s men going forward. The midfielder unleashed a left-footed piledriver into the bottom right corner just seconds after restart, doubling the hosts’ lead. Undeterred, the visitors responded just after the hour mark to halve Leicester’s lead, following a brilliant team move which was capped off by Ivan Toney’s hold-up play and finish.
The hosts almost retaliated with a goal of their own six minutes later when Wesley Fofana rose high to meet a free-kick delivery, only to direct it at the right post.
Brentford goalscorer Toney then came agonisingly close to equalising with his head, as he sent his effort from a cross narrowly wide of the left post.
However, they didn’t have to wait long after that miss, with Josh Dasilva executing a brilliant piece of solo play to curl in the equaliser minutes before FT. The Bees stung the Foxes as the final minutes ticked by, mustering hopes of an improvement on a 13th place finish last season. Meanwhile, Leicester have work to do if they are to better a sobering eighth position.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Ivan Toney (Brentford)
Akhil Fisher | flashscore.co.uk
Bees sting late to wound hungry Foxes
Leicester City and Brentford treated the King Power Stadium to an absolute thriller in their season opener. The Foxes failed to secure a third successive H2H league win this century, succumbing to a late equaliser to draw 2-2.
Attempting to avoid a case of second-season syndrome after punching above their weight in their first ever PL season, Brentford started with enough belief to land themselves a top-half finish this time around.
However, their advances did not bother the hosts, who came close twice within the first 20 minutes, first via Youri Tielemans’ long range effort denied masterfully by David Raya, before James Maddison missed a header from inside the box.
Making up for his earlier miss, Maddison turned provider with an inch-perfect corner kick minutes later as he curled a beauty right into the path of Timothy Castagne, who headed home the opener. Despite a positive reaction from the Bees, Brendan Rodgers’ side looked rather unsatisfied with their one-goal lead as they charged on for a second. Pushing the visitors on their heels, Tielemans struck a low thunderbolt that came off the bottom post to keep things as it was going into the break.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall made sure things were not going to stay the same for Thomas Frank’s men going forward. The midfielder unleashed a left-footed piledriver into the bottom right corner just seconds after restart, doubling the hosts’ lead. Undeterred, the visitors responded just after the hour mark to halve Leicester’s lead, following a brilliant team move which was capped off by Ivan Toney’s hold-up play and finish.
The hosts almost retaliated with a goal of their own six minutes later when Wesley Fofana rose high to meet a free-kick delivery, only to direct it at the right post.
Brentford goalscorer Toney then came agonisingly close to equalising with his head, as he sent his effort from a cross narrowly wide of the left post.
However, they didn’t have to wait long after that miss, with Josh Dasilva executing a brilliant piece of solo play to curl in the equaliser minutes before FT. The Bees stung the Foxes as the final minutes ticked by, mustering hopes of an improvement on a 13th place finish last season. Meanwhile, Leicester have work to do if they are to better a sobering eighth position.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Ivan Toney (Brentford)
Akhil Fisher | flashscore.co.uk
Chelsea come back in for Leicester City star with 'fresh proposal' as player stance claimed
Chelsea further test the Foxes' transfer resolve over star defender Wesley Fofana
Chelsea have upped their attempt to get Wesley Fofana with a new and improved bid to test Leicester City's resolve, it has been claimed.
The Times reported on Friday that The Blues were "considering" making a second offer of £70million for the Foxes defender after seeing their first bid instantly rejected by the club. The Blues have been credited with an interest in Fofana over the last couple of weeks as they search for centre-back reinforcements ahead of the new season. Having lost out on the likes of Jules Kounde and Prenel Kimpembe, attentions turned to Fofana.
City are not interested in selling the defender this summer, especially as he signed a new five-year contract back in March just as he was returning from a fractured fibula. Chelsea’s initial bid of around £60million was said to be "immediately" rejected by City with the club providing no encouragement to Thomas Tuchel’s men regarding a higher offer.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, however, claims the London club have come back in, tweeting: "Chelsea have submitted a fresh proposal for Wesley Fofana on Friday in excess of £70m. Leicester have turned down the proposal, Rodgers also insists he's not for sale."
And the journalist added his thoughts on the player's stance, continuing: "...but Chelsea are determined to try again for Fofana. The player would be 100% keen on the move."
According to The Times, City have ‘made it clear’ that only a World record fee, eclipsing the £80m they sold Harry Maguire for in 2019, would be considered.
It is also added that Brendan Rodgers has informed Fofana that he will not be sold this summer, with the understanding that the player could be allowed to leave in 12 months' time. His former club St Etienne are also set to be given 20 percent of any profit City make on the defender.
Chelsea are also said to be willing to include players in the offer in order to try and drive the asking price down. City did show an interest in defender Levi Colwill, but it seems that the central defender is now moving to Brighton on loan with full-back Marc Cucurella going the other way.
Fofana is expected to be named alongside Jonny Evans in the centre of City’s defence for Sunday’s Premier League opener at the King Power Stadium against Brentford.
Leicester Mercury
Chelsea further test the Foxes' transfer resolve over star defender Wesley Fofana
Chelsea have upped their attempt to get Wesley Fofana with a new and improved bid to test Leicester City's resolve, it has been claimed.
The Times reported on Friday that The Blues were "considering" making a second offer of £70million for the Foxes defender after seeing their first bid instantly rejected by the club. The Blues have been credited with an interest in Fofana over the last couple of weeks as they search for centre-back reinforcements ahead of the new season. Having lost out on the likes of Jules Kounde and Prenel Kimpembe, attentions turned to Fofana.
City are not interested in selling the defender this summer, especially as he signed a new five-year contract back in March just as he was returning from a fractured fibula. Chelsea’s initial bid of around £60million was said to be "immediately" rejected by City with the club providing no encouragement to Thomas Tuchel’s men regarding a higher offer.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, however, claims the London club have come back in, tweeting: "Chelsea have submitted a fresh proposal for Wesley Fofana on Friday in excess of £70m. Leicester have turned down the proposal, Rodgers also insists he's not for sale."
And the journalist added his thoughts on the player's stance, continuing: "...but Chelsea are determined to try again for Fofana. The player would be 100% keen on the move."
According to The Times, City have ‘made it clear’ that only a World record fee, eclipsing the £80m they sold Harry Maguire for in 2019, would be considered.
It is also added that Brendan Rodgers has informed Fofana that he will not be sold this summer, with the understanding that the player could be allowed to leave in 12 months' time. His former club St Etienne are also set to be given 20 percent of any profit City make on the defender.
Chelsea are also said to be willing to include players in the offer in order to try and drive the asking price down. City did show an interest in defender Levi Colwill, but it seems that the central defender is now moving to Brighton on loan with full-back Marc Cucurella going the other way.
Fofana is expected to be named alongside Jonny Evans in the centre of City’s defence for Sunday’s Premier League opener at the King Power Stadium against Brentford.
Leicester Mercury
Leicester City 'bonus' as reinvigorated Dennis Praet decides to stay and fight for place
Brendan Rodgers had expected the Belgian midfielder to ask for a transfer after a loan spell at Torino last season, but he wants to be at the King Power Stadium for the new season.
Leicester City have been given a “real bonus” after midfielder Dennis Praet indicated he is willing to stay and fight for his place at the club.
City manager Brendan Rodgers has said he expected the Belgian international to seek a transfer away from the club this summer, but instead he has returned “reinvigorated” and has impressed in pre-season showings. He could even start against Brentford on Sunday, having replaced the injured Harvey Barnes on the left wing last weekend against Sevilla.
Praet spent last season on loan in Serie A with Torino, pushing for a move away from City because of his lack of game-time at the end of the previous campaign. While in Italy, he said he was no longer happy at the King Power Stadium, and felt he had been “treated somewhat unfairly”, with Rodgers not providing an explanation over his lack of minutes.
But it seems those bridges have been rebuilt. Rodgers has now suggested Praet will feature regularly this season, either as a starter or as somebody who the manager knows he can turn to as an influential substitute.
“He's very much a part of what we’re doing,” Rodgers said. “I’ve been delighted with Dennis. I pulled him and had a chat with him Friday morning to tell him how well he’s done over pre-season.
“I think my notion when he came back, when we spoke in Evian, was that he was maybe one who wanted to move on and play, because he was in that situation before. But he’s come back reinvigorated and really wants to be here at the club, which is great, and over the course of the pre-season, he’s looked strong, he’s looked fit and he’s done very well in the games.
“I think he’s a real bonus for us that he wants to stay and compete for a place in the team. If he doesn’t play, I know I’ve got someone on the bench to come into the game, but I’m pretty sure he will end up having a really good season for us.”
Praet first arrived at City in 2019 in an £18m move from Sampdoria. His last competitive appearance for the club was as a substitute in a 3-0 win over West Brom in April 2021.
Leicester Mercury
Brendan Rodgers had expected the Belgian midfielder to ask for a transfer after a loan spell at Torino last season, but he wants to be at the King Power Stadium for the new season.
Leicester City have been given a “real bonus” after midfielder Dennis Praet indicated he is willing to stay and fight for his place at the club.
City manager Brendan Rodgers has said he expected the Belgian international to seek a transfer away from the club this summer, but instead he has returned “reinvigorated” and has impressed in pre-season showings. He could even start against Brentford on Sunday, having replaced the injured Harvey Barnes on the left wing last weekend against Sevilla.
Praet spent last season on loan in Serie A with Torino, pushing for a move away from City because of his lack of game-time at the end of the previous campaign. While in Italy, he said he was no longer happy at the King Power Stadium, and felt he had been “treated somewhat unfairly”, with Rodgers not providing an explanation over his lack of minutes.
But it seems those bridges have been rebuilt. Rodgers has now suggested Praet will feature regularly this season, either as a starter or as somebody who the manager knows he can turn to as an influential substitute.
“He's very much a part of what we’re doing,” Rodgers said. “I’ve been delighted with Dennis. I pulled him and had a chat with him Friday morning to tell him how well he’s done over pre-season.
“I think my notion when he came back, when we spoke in Evian, was that he was maybe one who wanted to move on and play, because he was in that situation before. But he’s come back reinvigorated and really wants to be here at the club, which is great, and over the course of the pre-season, he’s looked strong, he’s looked fit and he’s done very well in the games.
“I think he’s a real bonus for us that he wants to stay and compete for a place in the team. If he doesn’t play, I know I’ve got someone on the bench to come into the game, but I’m pretty sure he will end up having a really good season for us.”
Praet first arrived at City in 2019 in an £18m move from Sampdoria. His last competitive appearance for the club was as a substitute in a 3-0 win over West Brom in April 2021.
Leicester Mercury
Leicester City reject Chelsea transfer bid for defender Wesley Fofana
Leicester City have rejected a bid from Chelsea for defender Wesley Fofana, according to reports.
The Blues are said to have made an opening offer of €75million (£62.8m) for the 21-year-old, which was "immediately" rejected. City are maintaining their "not-for-sale" stance and are said to have provided no encouragement to Chelsea regarding a higher offer.
Fofana has been linked with Chelsea throughout the summer, although there interest has only become concrete in recent days. Leicester will not want to lose a key defender, having already seen Kasper Schmeichel leave while facing the likelihood of selling Youri Tielemans.
News of Chelsea's approach for Fofana comes from French newspaper L'Equipe, who say the London club submitted their offer on Wednesday. When pushing for a move from Saint-Etienne to Leicester, Fofana gave an interview to L'Equipe about wanting the transfer, suggesting the French media organisation is close to the player.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the bid and says Chelsea are "preparing another approach" for the Frenchman. It is likely they will increase their bid.
Fofana dropped clues on social media earlier this week to suggest he wants to move to Stamford Bridge, though he also liked a tweet suggesting fans shouldn't read too much into his posts. It remains to be seen if he will continue to push the move, or accept he will have to wait until next summer for an exit.
Leicester Mercury
Leicester City have rejected a bid from Chelsea for defender Wesley Fofana, according to reports.
The Blues are said to have made an opening offer of €75million (£62.8m) for the 21-year-old, which was "immediately" rejected. City are maintaining their "not-for-sale" stance and are said to have provided no encouragement to Chelsea regarding a higher offer.
Fofana has been linked with Chelsea throughout the summer, although there interest has only become concrete in recent days. Leicester will not want to lose a key defender, having already seen Kasper Schmeichel leave while facing the likelihood of selling Youri Tielemans.
News of Chelsea's approach for Fofana comes from French newspaper L'Equipe, who say the London club submitted their offer on Wednesday. When pushing for a move from Saint-Etienne to Leicester, Fofana gave an interview to L'Equipe about wanting the transfer, suggesting the French media organisation is close to the player.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the bid and says Chelsea are "preparing another approach" for the Frenchman. It is likely they will increase their bid.
Fofana dropped clues on social media earlier this week to suggest he wants to move to Stamford Bridge, though he also liked a tweet suggesting fans shouldn't read too much into his posts. It remains to be seen if he will continue to push the move, or accept he will have to wait until next summer for an exit.
Leicester Mercury
Kasper Schmeichel completes Leicester City exit as Nice transfer confirmed
The goalkeeper leaves Leicester City with four medals to show for almost 500 appearances for the club across over a decade as the club's first-choice between the sticks
Leicester City club captain Kasper Schmeichel has completed a transfer to OGC Nice after 11 years in the East Midlands.
The 35-year-old signed for the club from Manchester City in late June 2011 and went on to win the Championship, Premier League, FA Cup and Community Shield in over a decade at the King Power Stadium. Now an 80-plus cap Denmark international,
Schmeichel becomes to first major outgoing of the summer transfer window for Brendan Rodgers' side that has also yet to see a senior incoming arrive either.
A three-year contract to stay in the French Riviera until the summer of 2025 has reportedly been agreed with the goalkeeper. Nice have also recently welcomed former Arsenal and Juventus midfielder Aaron Ramsey to the club this week.
Announcing the Dane's departure, the Foxes said in a statement: "Goalkeeper and Club Captain Kasper Schmeichel will join Ligue 1 side OGC Nice, ending an 11-year association with the Football Club that sees him leave with his status firmly secured as one of greatest players in Leicester City history.
"The 35-year-old, who lifted the Premier League, FA Cup, Community Shield and Championship trophies after signing from Leeds United in 2011, joins the French side for an undisclosed fee, subject to international and league approval.
"Schmeichel, who sits third in Leicester City’s all-time appearance list having played 479 times during 11 historic seasons for the Football Club, has been a key figure in the unprecedented period of success seen under King Power’s ownership.
"The Danish international has been at the heart of countless memorable moments, including the Football Club’s Premier League title victory in 2015/16 and the Foxes’ maiden FA Cup win in 2020/21. His passion, leadership and consistency helped lay the foundations for a period of sustained success never before seen at Leicester City and will leave his name written proudly in the Club’s history books."
Leicester Mercury
The goalkeeper leaves Leicester City with four medals to show for almost 500 appearances for the club across over a decade as the club's first-choice between the sticks
Leicester City club captain Kasper Schmeichel has completed a transfer to OGC Nice after 11 years in the East Midlands.
The 35-year-old signed for the club from Manchester City in late June 2011 and went on to win the Championship, Premier League, FA Cup and Community Shield in over a decade at the King Power Stadium. Now an 80-plus cap Denmark international,
Schmeichel becomes to first major outgoing of the summer transfer window for Brendan Rodgers' side that has also yet to see a senior incoming arrive either.
A three-year contract to stay in the French Riviera until the summer of 2025 has reportedly been agreed with the goalkeeper. Nice have also recently welcomed former Arsenal and Juventus midfielder Aaron Ramsey to the club this week.
Announcing the Dane's departure, the Foxes said in a statement: "Goalkeeper and Club Captain Kasper Schmeichel will join Ligue 1 side OGC Nice, ending an 11-year association with the Football Club that sees him leave with his status firmly secured as one of greatest players in Leicester City history.
"The 35-year-old, who lifted the Premier League, FA Cup, Community Shield and Championship trophies after signing from Leeds United in 2011, joins the French side for an undisclosed fee, subject to international and league approval.
"Schmeichel, who sits third in Leicester City’s all-time appearance list having played 479 times during 11 historic seasons for the Football Club, has been a key figure in the unprecedented period of success seen under King Power’s ownership.
"The Danish international has been at the heart of countless memorable moments, including the Football Club’s Premier League title victory in 2015/16 and the Foxes’ maiden FA Cup win in 2020/21. His passion, leadership and consistency helped lay the foundations for a period of sustained success never before seen at Leicester City and will leave his name written proudly in the Club’s history books."
Leicester Mercury
Pre-Season Concludes With Sevilla Success On Filbert Way
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall scored the only goal of the game as Leicester City ended their preparations for the 2022/23 season with a dominant victory over Sevilla.
A strong squad and starting XI was named by Brendan Rodgers for the final pre-season friendly against the Spaniards, ahead of the new Premier League season kicking off in a week's time.
The Foxes began in a 4-2-3-1 system, with Timothy Castagne operating in a more advanced position on the right and Harvey Barnes on the opposite flank, either side of lone striker Jamie Vardy. And it was Barnes who created the first meaningful chance of the game after 10 minutes, taking Wesley Fofana's cross-field pass in his stride, flicking the ball over Lucas Ocampos before bending it just the wrong side of the far post.
The England international winger was central to the next passage of attacking play too, robbing Sevilla of possession and feeding Vardy to his left, but once City's No.9 cut back onto his right foot, the visitors had enough bodies back in the six-yard box to block the shot.
Sevilla had opportunities of their own and could have levelled just over halfway through the first period, albeit somewhat fortuitously, when Papu Gómez's out-swinging free-kick took a nick off Fofana and forced Daniel Iversen into a sprawling diving stop, tipping the ball past the post.
Back at the other end, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall played Vardy through and this time he unselfishly cut the ball back to Maddison, who had three or four defenders blocking his route to goal, but still managed to twist and turn to unleash an effort at goal that Namanja Gudelj deflected out for a corner.
From the resulting set piece, Dewsbury-Hall was the architect of another Maddison chance, though this time it was 'keeper Marko Dmitrovic who was in the way of his fierce strike. The 23-year-old could have had a hat-trick of assists in the space of just of few minutes had Vardy finished off his latest splitting pass.
Ricardo Pereira went down with an injury with a little under 10 minutes to go until the break and was brought off, with Youri Tielemans coming on in his place, leading to a shift in the midfield.
Rojiblancos, meanwhile, looked to be in from an aerial cross into the box, which sailed over Jonny Evans' head, and a neat touch from Ivan Romero took the ball under control, though Fofana's last-ditch sliding tackle was expertly timed and prevented a certain shot on goal.
Maddison's free-kick from the edge of the box was the last action of the half, though there just wasn't enough dip on the ball to take it the right side of the crossbar.
A double half-time change saw Kasper Schmeichel and Daniel Amartey introduced for Iversen and Fofana and Leicester kept the pressure up in the second period.
Following James Justin's mazy run, which failed to materialise into an effort on goal, Maddison tried his luck from range, though Kiki Salas got his body in the way of the shot, which was bound for Dmitrovic's goal.
Leicester's No.10 then turned provider with a clever pass to Tielemans, who in turn found Vardy, though the Club's all-time record Premier League goalscorer was unable to beat Dmitrovic.
Barnes forced the shot-stopper into another save moments later, though he was unlikely to be beaten from the tight angle from which the shot was taken.
It was his last action, replaced by Dennis Praet shortly after the hour mark. Another double substitution followed, as Vardy and Wilfred Ndidi came off for Patson Daka and Boubakary Soumaré.
Dewsbury-Hall finally broke the deadlock on 68 minutes. Collecting the ball from Maddison, he cut inside onto his left foot and, via a deflection which deceived Dmitrovic, saw the ball tuck into the bottom corner. The away side still showed signs that they were looking for a positive result. Substitute Jesús Navas fired narrowly over the crossbar, before Nacho Quintana struck the side netting from range, although Rodgers' men remained in the ascendency.
A quick-fire brace of chances were presented to Daka in quick succession, firstly an attempt from the edge of the box which had to be tipped away, before his header cannoned back off the post. The lively Zambian created a third chance which was once again saved by Dmitrovic.
Marc Albrighton's introduction, alongside Papy Mendy, for Maddison and Dewsbury-Hall, marked City's final changes of the evening, ahead of the last meaningful action - an attempt from Praet - deflecting over.
LCFC.COM
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall scored the only goal of the game as Leicester City ended their preparations for the 2022/23 season with a dominant victory over Sevilla.
A strong squad and starting XI was named by Brendan Rodgers for the final pre-season friendly against the Spaniards, ahead of the new Premier League season kicking off in a week's time.
The Foxes began in a 4-2-3-1 system, with Timothy Castagne operating in a more advanced position on the right and Harvey Barnes on the opposite flank, either side of lone striker Jamie Vardy. And it was Barnes who created the first meaningful chance of the game after 10 minutes, taking Wesley Fofana's cross-field pass in his stride, flicking the ball over Lucas Ocampos before bending it just the wrong side of the far post.
The England international winger was central to the next passage of attacking play too, robbing Sevilla of possession and feeding Vardy to his left, but once City's No.9 cut back onto his right foot, the visitors had enough bodies back in the six-yard box to block the shot.
Sevilla had opportunities of their own and could have levelled just over halfway through the first period, albeit somewhat fortuitously, when Papu Gómez's out-swinging free-kick took a nick off Fofana and forced Daniel Iversen into a sprawling diving stop, tipping the ball past the post.
Back at the other end, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall played Vardy through and this time he unselfishly cut the ball back to Maddison, who had three or four defenders blocking his route to goal, but still managed to twist and turn to unleash an effort at goal that Namanja Gudelj deflected out for a corner.
From the resulting set piece, Dewsbury-Hall was the architect of another Maddison chance, though this time it was 'keeper Marko Dmitrovic who was in the way of his fierce strike. The 23-year-old could have had a hat-trick of assists in the space of just of few minutes had Vardy finished off his latest splitting pass.
Ricardo Pereira went down with an injury with a little under 10 minutes to go until the break and was brought off, with Youri Tielemans coming on in his place, leading to a shift in the midfield.
Rojiblancos, meanwhile, looked to be in from an aerial cross into the box, which sailed over Jonny Evans' head, and a neat touch from Ivan Romero took the ball under control, though Fofana's last-ditch sliding tackle was expertly timed and prevented a certain shot on goal.
Maddison's free-kick from the edge of the box was the last action of the half, though there just wasn't enough dip on the ball to take it the right side of the crossbar.
A double half-time change saw Kasper Schmeichel and Daniel Amartey introduced for Iversen and Fofana and Leicester kept the pressure up in the second period.
Following James Justin's mazy run, which failed to materialise into an effort on goal, Maddison tried his luck from range, though Kiki Salas got his body in the way of the shot, which was bound for Dmitrovic's goal.
Leicester's No.10 then turned provider with a clever pass to Tielemans, who in turn found Vardy, though the Club's all-time record Premier League goalscorer was unable to beat Dmitrovic.
Barnes forced the shot-stopper into another save moments later, though he was unlikely to be beaten from the tight angle from which the shot was taken.
It was his last action, replaced by Dennis Praet shortly after the hour mark. Another double substitution followed, as Vardy and Wilfred Ndidi came off for Patson Daka and Boubakary Soumaré.
Dewsbury-Hall finally broke the deadlock on 68 minutes. Collecting the ball from Maddison, he cut inside onto his left foot and, via a deflection which deceived Dmitrovic, saw the ball tuck into the bottom corner. The away side still showed signs that they were looking for a positive result. Substitute Jesús Navas fired narrowly over the crossbar, before Nacho Quintana struck the side netting from range, although Rodgers' men remained in the ascendency.
A quick-fire brace of chances were presented to Daka in quick succession, firstly an attempt from the edge of the box which had to be tipped away, before his header cannoned back off the post. The lively Zambian created a third chance which was once again saved by Dmitrovic.
Marc Albrighton's introduction, alongside Papy Mendy, for Maddison and Dewsbury-Hall, marked City's final changes of the evening, ahead of the last meaningful action - an attempt from Praet - deflecting over.
LCFC.COM
Fulham boss Marco Silva chasing Leicester defender Jannik Vestergaard transfer but Foxes want £12m for giant Dane
FULHAM want Leicester’s Danish centre-half Jannik Vestergaard to bolster their defence.
Marco Silva is looking for more power and presence at the back — and 6ft 4in Vestergaard is available as Brendan Rodgers looks to shake up his Foxes squad.
Fulham fancy a loan deal but Leicester will be looking for up to £12million for the former Southampton defender, 29. Silva has also looked at West Ham’s Issa Diop, 25, but Vestergaard may yet be the answer.
The Denmark international came to our shores in 2018, when he signed for the Saints in 2018 in a £22million deal from Borussia Monchengladbach. He soon became a fans' favourite - appearing 79 times across three seasons for the South Coast club.
Last summer, Southampton accepted a £16million deal from the Foxes and Vestergaard signed on a three-year deal. However, he has struggled to settle at the King Power Stadium and hasn't had as much game time as he would have liked.
He made just 10 Premier League appearances in a disappointing campaign for Brendan Rodgers' men, who finished eighth in the top flight.
Internationally, though, his career has hit bigger heights.
He was famously part of the Danish team that reached the semi-finals of Euro 2020.
Leicester may be reluctant to sell - with reports suggesting fellow centre back Wesley Fofana is a target for Chelsea.
The Sun
FULHAM want Leicester’s Danish centre-half Jannik Vestergaard to bolster their defence.
Marco Silva is looking for more power and presence at the back — and 6ft 4in Vestergaard is available as Brendan Rodgers looks to shake up his Foxes squad.
Fulham fancy a loan deal but Leicester will be looking for up to £12million for the former Southampton defender, 29. Silva has also looked at West Ham’s Issa Diop, 25, but Vestergaard may yet be the answer.
The Denmark international came to our shores in 2018, when he signed for the Saints in 2018 in a £22million deal from Borussia Monchengladbach. He soon became a fans' favourite - appearing 79 times across three seasons for the South Coast club.
Last summer, Southampton accepted a £16million deal from the Foxes and Vestergaard signed on a three-year deal. However, he has struggled to settle at the King Power Stadium and hasn't had as much game time as he would have liked.
He made just 10 Premier League appearances in a disappointing campaign for Brendan Rodgers' men, who finished eighth in the top flight.
Internationally, though, his career has hit bigger heights.
He was famously part of the Danish team that reached the semi-finals of Euro 2020.
Leicester may be reluctant to sell - with reports suggesting fellow centre back Wesley Fofana is a target for Chelsea.
The Sun
James Maddison to be ‘offered’ new Leicester City contract after Newcastle United bid ‘rejected’
The latest Leicester City transfer news as the midfielder is reportedly subject of interest from Newcastle United.
Leicester City midfielder James Maddison is reportedly set to be offered a new contract with the club, as City look to keep hold of one of their key players.
The 25-year-old was in the best form of his career last season after recovering from a dip in confidence at the start of the campaign. His form led to him being named as the club’s player of the season as voted for by supporters. He finished the season with a career high 18 goals and 12 assists, and had found the net in each of the last four Premier League matches. He’ll look to continue that run when City host Brentford in the season opener at the King Power Stadium next Sunday.
His performances led to raised eyebrows when he was left out of the latest England squad by manager Gareth Southgate. Maddison has the first few months of the season to convince the Three Lions boss to included him in the squad for the World Cup in Qatar.
As well as international whispers, Maddison’s performances led to some talk over his future. The Telegraph reports that City have rejected a £40 million offer from Newcastle United for the playmaker this week.
As reported by the Daily Mail , City are ‘set to offer’ the player a new deal at the King Power Stadium, two years after he signed his current contract. That deal runs until 2024, meaning that Maddison is entering the final two years.
Securing the midfielder’s future at the club is said to be a ‘priority’ for City, ahead of what could be a big year for Maddison. Videos of early pre-season showed him leading the running drills as he looked to continue from where he left off last season.
Following the friendly against sister club OH Leuven, where Maddison’s quick thinking led to an equalising goal, City boss Brendan Rodgers said that the player was “the best I’ve seen him, in the three-and-a-half years I’ve been at Leicester.”
“He looks now really physically strong, technically confident and tactically, his view of the game is outstanding”
Leicester Mercury
The latest Leicester City transfer news as the midfielder is reportedly subject of interest from Newcastle United.
Leicester City midfielder James Maddison is reportedly set to be offered a new contract with the club, as City look to keep hold of one of their key players.
The 25-year-old was in the best form of his career last season after recovering from a dip in confidence at the start of the campaign. His form led to him being named as the club’s player of the season as voted for by supporters. He finished the season with a career high 18 goals and 12 assists, and had found the net in each of the last four Premier League matches. He’ll look to continue that run when City host Brentford in the season opener at the King Power Stadium next Sunday.
His performances led to raised eyebrows when he was left out of the latest England squad by manager Gareth Southgate. Maddison has the first few months of the season to convince the Three Lions boss to included him in the squad for the World Cup in Qatar.
As well as international whispers, Maddison’s performances led to some talk over his future. The Telegraph reports that City have rejected a £40 million offer from Newcastle United for the playmaker this week.
As reported by the Daily Mail , City are ‘set to offer’ the player a new deal at the King Power Stadium, two years after he signed his current contract. That deal runs until 2024, meaning that Maddison is entering the final two years.
Securing the midfielder’s future at the club is said to be a ‘priority’ for City, ahead of what could be a big year for Maddison. Videos of early pre-season showed him leading the running drills as he looked to continue from where he left off last season.
Following the friendly against sister club OH Leuven, where Maddison’s quick thinking led to an equalising goal, City boss Brendan Rodgers said that the player was “the best I’ve seen him, in the three-and-a-half years I’ve been at Leicester.”
“He looks now really physically strong, technically confident and tactically, his view of the game is outstanding”
Leicester Mercury
Leicester reject £40m bid from Newcastle for midfielder James Maddison
Newcastle are now deciding whether to make an improved offer for the midfielder, with Leicester believed to value Maddison at closer to £60m
Leicester have rejected a £40m bid from Newcastle for James Maddison.
Newcastle are now deciding whether to make an improved offer for the midfielder, with Leicester believed to value Maddison at closer to £60m.
Eddie Howe remains keen to strengthen his squad despite some setbacks in the transfer market this summer, having been rebuffed in their attempts to sign Everton midfielder Anthony Gordon, while French striker Hugo Ekitike opted for a move to Paris Saint-Germain instead of Newcastle.
But Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers could be determined to retain the services of Maddison, who produced some impressive displays in the closing months of the season after he dropped out of contention for the England squad following a dip in form.
With defender Wesley Fofana attracting interest from Chelsea, Rodgers will be reluctant to allow key members of his squad to depart before the start of the new campaign next weekend.
Sky Sports
Newcastle are now deciding whether to make an improved offer for the midfielder, with Leicester believed to value Maddison at closer to £60m
Leicester have rejected a £40m bid from Newcastle for James Maddison.
Newcastle are now deciding whether to make an improved offer for the midfielder, with Leicester believed to value Maddison at closer to £60m.
Eddie Howe remains keen to strengthen his squad despite some setbacks in the transfer market this summer, having been rebuffed in their attempts to sign Everton midfielder Anthony Gordon, while French striker Hugo Ekitike opted for a move to Paris Saint-Germain instead of Newcastle.
But Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers could be determined to retain the services of Maddison, who produced some impressive displays in the closing months of the season after he dropped out of contention for the England squad following a dip in form.
With defender Wesley Fofana attracting interest from Chelsea, Rodgers will be reluctant to allow key members of his squad to depart before the start of the new campaign next weekend.
Sky Sports
Six potential Kasper Schmeichel replacements Leicester City could turn to after transfer claim
Leicester City could be stepping up their search for a first-choice goalkeeper for the first time in 11 summers after reports surrounding the future of club captain Kasper Schmeichel.
With just one year remaining on his deal with the club, reports in France suggest the 35-year-old could be on the move this summer. L’Equipe report that Schmeichel has agreed to join OGC Nice .
There is however one condition to City letting him go - that they first find a replacement. City have been linked with interest in a couple of goalkeepers this summer, and it now seems the search could become more intense.
Here we take a look at six potential options...
Robert Sanchez
The Brighton and Hove Albion goalkeeper was first linked with a move to the King Power Stadium earlier this summer, but it seems that any potential deal would be scuppered by Brighton's demands. Rumour has it that City were quoted £50m when they enquired about Sanchez earlier, prompting them to walk away.
The 24-year-old kept 11 clean sheets in the Premier League last season and was known for his dominance in the box, an area which could help City to solve their set piece woes. He was called up to the full Spanish national team last year, making his international debut as a late substitute in a 4-0 win over Georgia back in September.
Odysseas Vlachodimos
The goalkeeper to be most recently linked with City. The Benfica man is said to be looking for a new challenge and could be available for a reported €15m to €20m (£12.6m-£16.8m).
The Greek international made 48 appearances for Benfica last season in all competitions, keeping 18 clean sheets. However, he was left out of the squad entirely for their final league match of the season.
The 28-year-old was linked with Newcastle United during the January transfer window, and when asked about a potential move to the Premier League back then, said: “The Premier League is special with its packed stadiums and incredible atmosphere. “But I’m not thinking about that at the moment. I feel very comfortable at Benfica and in Portugal. My contract also runs for two years.”
David Raya
The Brentford goalkeeper has not agreed a new deal with the London club despite taking part in talks, sparking doubt about his future. He does, however, still have two years remaining on his current contract.
In response, Brentford have completed the signing of Thomas Strakosha, who could have potentially come in as a replacement for the goalkeeper this summer. The new Brentford man turned down Manchester United due to wanting more first team opportunities, which could therefore mean Raya is available this summer.
The 26 year-old kept eight clean sheets in the Premier League last season as Brentford comfortably stayed up. Those blanks came despite the goalkeeper missing four months of the season with a knee injury suffered against City in October.
Bernd Leno
Another goalkeeper who could be on the move this summer, Leno has been heavily linked with a move to newly-promoted Fulham in the current window, but they are yet to agree a fee with Arsenal. It is said the goalkeeper could cost around £8 million.
The 30-year-old has fallen behind Aaron Ramsdale in the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium, playing a total of eight games in all competitions last season and keeping three clean sheets. Leno is thought to be keen to remain in London.
He could be a cheaper shorter term option for City.
Replacement already around
The potential replacement could of course already be in the City squad where both Danny Ward and Daniel Iversen wait in the wings.
Ward has played second fiddle to Schmeichel since arriving from Liverpool in the summer of 2018. After being restricted to just cup appearances, he made his Premier League debut for the club in the 5-1 win over Watford back in May.
He will be keen to increase his minutes as he fights for a starting spot in Wales’ team for the forthcoming World Cup. However, a mystery injury the goalkeeper picked up while on international duty has seen him miss pre-season so far.
Iversen is the goalkeeper who has been called on in pre-season, after impressing on loan with Championship side Preston North End last term. The 25-year-old was named as the Championship club’s player of the season in 2021/22, earning rave reviews for his performances at Deepdale.
That has led to a lot of interest from Premier League clubs, plus a first call up to the full Danish squad. However, a couple of mistakes in early pre-season may have put a doubt in Brendan Rodgers’ mind over whether he can step up to the Premier League this season.
Leicester Mercury
Leicester City could be stepping up their search for a first-choice goalkeeper for the first time in 11 summers after reports surrounding the future of club captain Kasper Schmeichel.
With just one year remaining on his deal with the club, reports in France suggest the 35-year-old could be on the move this summer. L’Equipe report that Schmeichel has agreed to join OGC Nice .
There is however one condition to City letting him go - that they first find a replacement. City have been linked with interest in a couple of goalkeepers this summer, and it now seems the search could become more intense.
Here we take a look at six potential options...
Robert Sanchez
The Brighton and Hove Albion goalkeeper was first linked with a move to the King Power Stadium earlier this summer, but it seems that any potential deal would be scuppered by Brighton's demands. Rumour has it that City were quoted £50m when they enquired about Sanchez earlier, prompting them to walk away.
The 24-year-old kept 11 clean sheets in the Premier League last season and was known for his dominance in the box, an area which could help City to solve their set piece woes. He was called up to the full Spanish national team last year, making his international debut as a late substitute in a 4-0 win over Georgia back in September.
Odysseas Vlachodimos
The goalkeeper to be most recently linked with City. The Benfica man is said to be looking for a new challenge and could be available for a reported €15m to €20m (£12.6m-£16.8m).
The Greek international made 48 appearances for Benfica last season in all competitions, keeping 18 clean sheets. However, he was left out of the squad entirely for their final league match of the season.
The 28-year-old was linked with Newcastle United during the January transfer window, and when asked about a potential move to the Premier League back then, said: “The Premier League is special with its packed stadiums and incredible atmosphere. “But I’m not thinking about that at the moment. I feel very comfortable at Benfica and in Portugal. My contract also runs for two years.”
David Raya
The Brentford goalkeeper has not agreed a new deal with the London club despite taking part in talks, sparking doubt about his future. He does, however, still have two years remaining on his current contract.
In response, Brentford have completed the signing of Thomas Strakosha, who could have potentially come in as a replacement for the goalkeeper this summer. The new Brentford man turned down Manchester United due to wanting more first team opportunities, which could therefore mean Raya is available this summer.
The 26 year-old kept eight clean sheets in the Premier League last season as Brentford comfortably stayed up. Those blanks came despite the goalkeeper missing four months of the season with a knee injury suffered against City in October.
Bernd Leno
Another goalkeeper who could be on the move this summer, Leno has been heavily linked with a move to newly-promoted Fulham in the current window, but they are yet to agree a fee with Arsenal. It is said the goalkeeper could cost around £8 million.
The 30-year-old has fallen behind Aaron Ramsdale in the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium, playing a total of eight games in all competitions last season and keeping three clean sheets. Leno is thought to be keen to remain in London.
He could be a cheaper shorter term option for City.
Replacement already around
The potential replacement could of course already be in the City squad where both Danny Ward and Daniel Iversen wait in the wings.
Ward has played second fiddle to Schmeichel since arriving from Liverpool in the summer of 2018. After being restricted to just cup appearances, he made his Premier League debut for the club in the 5-1 win over Watford back in May.
He will be keen to increase his minutes as he fights for a starting spot in Wales’ team for the forthcoming World Cup. However, a mystery injury the goalkeeper picked up while on international duty has seen him miss pre-season so far.
Iversen is the goalkeeper who has been called on in pre-season, after impressing on loan with Championship side Preston North End last term. The 25-year-old was named as the Championship club’s player of the season in 2021/22, earning rave reviews for his performances at Deepdale.
That has led to a lot of interest from Premier League clubs, plus a first call up to the full Danish squad. However, a couple of mistakes in early pre-season may have put a doubt in Brendan Rodgers’ mind over whether he can step up to the Premier League this season.
Leicester Mercury
Why Kasper Schmeichel could leave Leicester City and what would happen next
Reports in France claim the goalkeeper has agreed to join Nice and will be allowed to move on a free transfer if City are able to bring in a replacement
Leicester City have reached a decisive moment in their transfer window and in their season with the future of captain and number one Kasper Schmeichel on the line.
L’Equipe are reporting that Schmeichel has agreed to join French side Nice and that a free transfer to Ligue 1 is only dependent on City finding a replacement. This may seem like a bombshell, but it has not come out of the blue. It has been a possibility for months.
Manager Brendan Rodgers has long been requesting a shake-up of his squad and the most significant way to do that would be to sell a player who is not only the club captain and longest-serving squad member, but also a huge influence in the dressing room and one of the highest wage earners. But given those factors, and given Schmeichel’s standing, it had the potential to be a difficult move.
The first clues emerged in May, when Danny Ward was handed his Premier League debut for the club nearly four years after his arrival from Liverpool. It ended Schmeichel’s appearance streak in the top flight at 149 games, with Rodgers saying Ward needed to play “for the health of the group”.
Later that month it emerged that City had been scouring the goalkeeper market for potential options. The club do look into the future, and with Schmeichel entering the final 12 months of his contract, it was feasible that City were merely planning ahead for a changeover next summer.
Interest in Brighton’s Robert Sanchez was significant in that the Spaniard comes for crosses more often than any other goalkeeper in the Premier League. With a terrible set-piece record the main reason for City’s downfall last season, and with a goalkeeper in Schmeichel who prefers to stay on his line, moving for Sanchez would be directly addressing a big problem.
No team had a higher percentage of goals conceded from set-pieces (34 per cent) last season, nor a higher number of goals conceded from crosses (15). When Ward played against Watford, he claimed three crosses. Schmeichel only claimed three crosses in total in his 15 outings before the Welshman’s debut.
Schmeichel’s late return to pre-season, the captain the only first-team player not to be involved at the camp at Evian this month, prompted further questions over his future. Rodgers’ explanation that the 35-year-old was afforded more time off because he was due a big season for club and country, with the World Cup to come in the winter, did not stack up when City have plenty of other players very likely to be representing their nations in Qatar.
Publicly, Rodgers has said he expected Schmeichel would be here for the upcoming campaign. Speaking in May, and asked if Schmeichel would be bidding farewell to the club in the last game of the season against Southampton, Rodgers said: "I don’t think so. I think he’s very happy here.
"Naturally he’s getting to the age where he can see the finishing line a little bit. In my conversations with him, he’s very happy. He’s got a year to go.
"It’s important for him and for us he’s in the best condition he can possibly be in. You’ve seen with Wardy that there’s a challenge there. I think he wants to be here, I think he wants to continue the fight in his career here. Up until now, he’s had a fantastic career."
Kasper Schmeichel kicks clear during Leicester City's meeting with Southampton (Image: Robin Jones/Getty Images)The Dane’s own sign-off last season – predicting "better things to come next season for us" – suggested he was planning to see out his contract at the club too. It always felt that it would be Schmeichel who determined when his City career would be over, having indicated he may like to move elsewhere for the final few years before he hangs up his gloves.
But now it seems it may be the club, not the player, making the decision. Because for a window where there has been very little movement at City, Schmeichel’s departure would be significant. While at 35 and with one year left on his contract, he is never going to fetch a huge fee, getting his wages off the books will provide the club with more room to manoeuvre as they look to bring players in. City have one of the highest wage-to-turnover ratios in the Premier League, and so it has to be a key consideration in their recruitment.
But, while Schmeichel departing would free up finances, City are likely to want to bring in a new goalkeeper as his replacement. While Rodgers has referred to Ward as his ‘other number one’, the Wales international is currently out injured. Daniel Iversen has promise and won player of the year at Preston last summer, but has made errors in pre-season.
As well as Brighton’s Sanchez, City have been linked with Benfica’s Greek international goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos, and so Schmeichel’s future does seem dependent on City being able to recruit a new number one. Failure in that process would give Schmeichel a chance to stay, but with the situation having reached this point, there may be tension there that hangs over City's campaign.
If Schmeichel was to go, there would need to be a passing of the armband too, but vice-captain Jonny Evans is a key figure for Rodgers and it would not be a difficult process, nor one that affects the squad dynamic too greatly, to name the Northern Irish centre-back as permanent skipper. Jamie Vardy, Youri Tielemans, James Maddison, and Marc Albrighton form the rest of the leadership group, while Rodgers has already named Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall as a potential future captain. There are options there.
And because it would free up finances on the wage bill, it may be the first domino for City in the transfer window, enabling them to start signing players in other areas. Time is on their side regarding the market, with five weeks to go until it closes, but not in terms of the Premier League season. City won’t want doubts over where they stand with their number one going into the first game against Brentford in just under a fortnight’s time.
Leicester Mercury
Reports in France claim the goalkeeper has agreed to join Nice and will be allowed to move on a free transfer if City are able to bring in a replacement
Leicester City have reached a decisive moment in their transfer window and in their season with the future of captain and number one Kasper Schmeichel on the line.
L’Equipe are reporting that Schmeichel has agreed to join French side Nice and that a free transfer to Ligue 1 is only dependent on City finding a replacement. This may seem like a bombshell, but it has not come out of the blue. It has been a possibility for months.
Manager Brendan Rodgers has long been requesting a shake-up of his squad and the most significant way to do that would be to sell a player who is not only the club captain and longest-serving squad member, but also a huge influence in the dressing room and one of the highest wage earners. But given those factors, and given Schmeichel’s standing, it had the potential to be a difficult move.
The first clues emerged in May, when Danny Ward was handed his Premier League debut for the club nearly four years after his arrival from Liverpool. It ended Schmeichel’s appearance streak in the top flight at 149 games, with Rodgers saying Ward needed to play “for the health of the group”.
Later that month it emerged that City had been scouring the goalkeeper market for potential options. The club do look into the future, and with Schmeichel entering the final 12 months of his contract, it was feasible that City were merely planning ahead for a changeover next summer.
Interest in Brighton’s Robert Sanchez was significant in that the Spaniard comes for crosses more often than any other goalkeeper in the Premier League. With a terrible set-piece record the main reason for City’s downfall last season, and with a goalkeeper in Schmeichel who prefers to stay on his line, moving for Sanchez would be directly addressing a big problem.
No team had a higher percentage of goals conceded from set-pieces (34 per cent) last season, nor a higher number of goals conceded from crosses (15). When Ward played against Watford, he claimed three crosses. Schmeichel only claimed three crosses in total in his 15 outings before the Welshman’s debut.
Schmeichel’s late return to pre-season, the captain the only first-team player not to be involved at the camp at Evian this month, prompted further questions over his future. Rodgers’ explanation that the 35-year-old was afforded more time off because he was due a big season for club and country, with the World Cup to come in the winter, did not stack up when City have plenty of other players very likely to be representing their nations in Qatar.
Publicly, Rodgers has said he expected Schmeichel would be here for the upcoming campaign. Speaking in May, and asked if Schmeichel would be bidding farewell to the club in the last game of the season against Southampton, Rodgers said: "I don’t think so. I think he’s very happy here.
"Naturally he’s getting to the age where he can see the finishing line a little bit. In my conversations with him, he’s very happy. He’s got a year to go.
"It’s important for him and for us he’s in the best condition he can possibly be in. You’ve seen with Wardy that there’s a challenge there. I think he wants to be here, I think he wants to continue the fight in his career here. Up until now, he’s had a fantastic career."
Kasper Schmeichel kicks clear during Leicester City's meeting with Southampton (Image: Robin Jones/Getty Images)The Dane’s own sign-off last season – predicting "better things to come next season for us" – suggested he was planning to see out his contract at the club too. It always felt that it would be Schmeichel who determined when his City career would be over, having indicated he may like to move elsewhere for the final few years before he hangs up his gloves.
But now it seems it may be the club, not the player, making the decision. Because for a window where there has been very little movement at City, Schmeichel’s departure would be significant. While at 35 and with one year left on his contract, he is never going to fetch a huge fee, getting his wages off the books will provide the club with more room to manoeuvre as they look to bring players in. City have one of the highest wage-to-turnover ratios in the Premier League, and so it has to be a key consideration in their recruitment.
But, while Schmeichel departing would free up finances, City are likely to want to bring in a new goalkeeper as his replacement. While Rodgers has referred to Ward as his ‘other number one’, the Wales international is currently out injured. Daniel Iversen has promise and won player of the year at Preston last summer, but has made errors in pre-season.
As well as Brighton’s Sanchez, City have been linked with Benfica’s Greek international goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos, and so Schmeichel’s future does seem dependent on City being able to recruit a new number one. Failure in that process would give Schmeichel a chance to stay, but with the situation having reached this point, there may be tension there that hangs over City's campaign.
If Schmeichel was to go, there would need to be a passing of the armband too, but vice-captain Jonny Evans is a key figure for Rodgers and it would not be a difficult process, nor one that affects the squad dynamic too greatly, to name the Northern Irish centre-back as permanent skipper. Jamie Vardy, Youri Tielemans, James Maddison, and Marc Albrighton form the rest of the leadership group, while Rodgers has already named Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall as a potential future captain. There are options there.
And because it would free up finances on the wage bill, it may be the first domino for City in the transfer window, enabling them to start signing players in other areas. Time is on their side regarding the market, with five weeks to go until it closes, but not in terms of the Premier League season. City won’t want doubts over where they stand with their number one going into the first game against Brentford in just under a fortnight’s time.
Leicester Mercury
NICE are plotting a move for Leicester star Kasper Schmeichel, according to reports.
The French outfit are seeking a replacement for Walter Benitez following his move to PSV and have their eye on the Foxes goalkeeper.
Schmeichel, 35, has spent the last 11 years at Leicester and has won the Premier League and the FA Cup during that spell.
But he is believed to be open to the move according to French outlet L'Equipe.
Schmeichel is in the final year of his contract and is said to want to leave on amicable terms.
Leicester need to sell in order to balance the books too - Brendan Rodgers' hands are tied in terms of bringing players in until there are outgoings
One player Rodgers has his eye on his Robert Sanchez who would arrive as Schmeichel's replacement.
Schmeichel is one of Leicester’s top earners on around £130,000-a-week and he is set to hold talks over his future at the Midlands club.
Leicester will likely try to persuade the Denmark international to take a pay cut and potentially look to offload the shot-stopper if an agreement cannot be reached.
The Foxes could also cash in on Youri Tielemans this summer with the Belgian in the last year of his contract.
Arsenal have been heavily linked with the midfielder's signature this summer and could wait for Leicester to reduce their £30million asking price.
With Leicester needing to raise funds they could reportedly be open to selling the likes of James Maddison, Wesley Fofana and Harvey Barnes later in the window.
The Sun
The French outfit are seeking a replacement for Walter Benitez following his move to PSV and have their eye on the Foxes goalkeeper.
Schmeichel, 35, has spent the last 11 years at Leicester and has won the Premier League and the FA Cup during that spell.
But he is believed to be open to the move according to French outlet L'Equipe.
Schmeichel is in the final year of his contract and is said to want to leave on amicable terms.
Leicester need to sell in order to balance the books too - Brendan Rodgers' hands are tied in terms of bringing players in until there are outgoings
One player Rodgers has his eye on his Robert Sanchez who would arrive as Schmeichel's replacement.
Schmeichel is one of Leicester’s top earners on around £130,000-a-week and he is set to hold talks over his future at the Midlands club.
Leicester will likely try to persuade the Denmark international to take a pay cut and potentially look to offload the shot-stopper if an agreement cannot be reached.
The Foxes could also cash in on Youri Tielemans this summer with the Belgian in the last year of his contract.
Arsenal have been heavily linked with the midfielder's signature this summer and could wait for Leicester to reduce their £30million asking price.
With Leicester needing to raise funds they could reportedly be open to selling the likes of James Maddison, Wesley Fofana and Harvey Barnes later in the window.
The Sun
Pre-Season Winning Run Continues With Preston Success
Leicester City made it three friendly wins in a row with a 2-1 success over Preston North End at Deepdale on Saturday.
Jamie Vardy and Harvey Barnes found the net for City inside the opening 18 minutes in Lancashire, before Ali McCann's deficit-halving strike in the second half, but it was the visitors who emerged with the victory in their fifth outing of pre-season.
After one Foxes squad sealed a 3-1 win at Derby County earlier in the day, manager Brendan Rodgers deployed another strong XI in the North West, with captain Kasper Schmeichel's maiden appearance of the summer among the team-news headlines.
On 11 minutes, Wesley Fofana's defensive header was the starting point of the move which led to their opener. Midfield general Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall soon took over, outmuscling Alan Browne, then threading a through-ball into Leicester's No.9, lurking on the edge of Preston's 18-yard box.
It was vintage Vardy, too, as the 35-year-old calmly stroked the ball beyond Freddie Woodman. A characteristically playful goal celebration followed.
Leicester were dominating the early proceedings against Ryan Lowe's Sky Bet Championship side. Perhaps out of frustration, Ryan Ledson earned an early yellow card – a rarity in pre-season – for a late challenge on James Maddison. City, though, remained composed and quickly doubled their lead.
Dewsbury-Hall, again, was in the thick of the build-up. It was his smart pirouette which evaded Bambo Diaby on the flank, before skidding a perfectly-weighted pass into Barnes. There was still plenty to do for City's No.7, who sheltered it assuredly and finished well for his third goal of the summer.
Rodgers' men were on control, holding the lion's share of possession for the entirely of the first half. There were chances for more goals as well. Ricardo Pereira's cross was headed wide of the post by Vardy. Albrighton then blazed over after Vardy ferried Barnes' low ball into his path.
An otherworldly first touch from Maddison later bought the No.10 time in the area, with only the ankles of Liam Lindsay preventing his low drive from testing Woodman. Ledson's block also kept the score down, as Barnes stuck a boot onto Albrighton's fizzed delivery across the Lilywhites' goalmouth.
Preston, who start their eighth consecutive second-tier campaign with a visit to Wigan Athletic next weekend, found another gear early in the second half. And the arrears were cut in half within five minutes of the restart as Andrew Hughes' floated cross was nodded past Schmeichel by McCann.
City were unlucky not to notch a third on 52 minutes. Newly-capped England international James Justin slipped the ball into Barnes, who darted past Lindsay on the byline, cutting it back into the six-yard box. Woodman, though, got there first before Vardy could pull the trigger.
Shortly afterwards, on the hour-mark, the ball grazed Fofana's forehead following superb wing-play from the evergreen Albrighton. Daniel Iversen, Preston's Player of the Season at the end of his loan spell from City last term, was then introduced to rapturous applause, replacing Schmeichel in the net.
Ayoze Pérez, on the other hand, was also brought on, with Albrighton the man to make way. Both sides will have felt aggrieved not to find the net soon after as Preston substitute Jordan Storey's powerful drive was instinctively clawed out of the near post by Iversen.
Rodgers' Premier League visitors countered, with flowing one-touch football involving Justin, Dewsbury-Hall and then Vardy, who hit a first-time effort over the bar. They got even closer when Maddison cut through the Preston defence and located Barnes. He could only find the base of the post, though.
That could have cost City had the linesman not raised his flag when Emil Riis Jakobsen – the hosts' top scorer last season – placed a loose ball past Iversen. While Leicester's attacking play impressed throughout, the latter stages offered a pre-season test of their defensive mettle too.
With Lowe's home side intent on rescuing a positive result just one week out from the outset of their league campaign, the Foxes' backline had to stand up. The competitiveness of the clash also showed as Storey, Benjamin Whiteman and Ched Evans all earned cautions in the final half an hour.
With the entirety of Leicester's back four playing the full 90 in Preston, it was a challenge they met. It could have been better, as Barnes fired straight at Woodman inside added time, but City nevertheless made it two wins from two on Saturday. Just a fortnight to go until the new Premier League season.
The sight of Jamie Vardy pouncing onto a through ball and bulging the net has been a frequent spectacle for the Blue Army over past seasons. To see the 35-year-old's potency on show in pre-season will be particularly exciting for the Foxes faithful ahead of the new campaign.
LCFC.COM
Leicester City made it three friendly wins in a row with a 2-1 success over Preston North End at Deepdale on Saturday.
Jamie Vardy and Harvey Barnes found the net for City inside the opening 18 minutes in Lancashire, before Ali McCann's deficit-halving strike in the second half, but it was the visitors who emerged with the victory in their fifth outing of pre-season.
After one Foxes squad sealed a 3-1 win at Derby County earlier in the day, manager Brendan Rodgers deployed another strong XI in the North West, with captain Kasper Schmeichel's maiden appearance of the summer among the team-news headlines.
On 11 minutes, Wesley Fofana's defensive header was the starting point of the move which led to their opener. Midfield general Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall soon took over, outmuscling Alan Browne, then threading a through-ball into Leicester's No.9, lurking on the edge of Preston's 18-yard box.
It was vintage Vardy, too, as the 35-year-old calmly stroked the ball beyond Freddie Woodman. A characteristically playful goal celebration followed.
Leicester were dominating the early proceedings against Ryan Lowe's Sky Bet Championship side. Perhaps out of frustration, Ryan Ledson earned an early yellow card – a rarity in pre-season – for a late challenge on James Maddison. City, though, remained composed and quickly doubled their lead.
Dewsbury-Hall, again, was in the thick of the build-up. It was his smart pirouette which evaded Bambo Diaby on the flank, before skidding a perfectly-weighted pass into Barnes. There was still plenty to do for City's No.7, who sheltered it assuredly and finished well for his third goal of the summer.
Rodgers' men were on control, holding the lion's share of possession for the entirely of the first half. There were chances for more goals as well. Ricardo Pereira's cross was headed wide of the post by Vardy. Albrighton then blazed over after Vardy ferried Barnes' low ball into his path.
An otherworldly first touch from Maddison later bought the No.10 time in the area, with only the ankles of Liam Lindsay preventing his low drive from testing Woodman. Ledson's block also kept the score down, as Barnes stuck a boot onto Albrighton's fizzed delivery across the Lilywhites' goalmouth.
Preston, who start their eighth consecutive second-tier campaign with a visit to Wigan Athletic next weekend, found another gear early in the second half. And the arrears were cut in half within five minutes of the restart as Andrew Hughes' floated cross was nodded past Schmeichel by McCann.
City were unlucky not to notch a third on 52 minutes. Newly-capped England international James Justin slipped the ball into Barnes, who darted past Lindsay on the byline, cutting it back into the six-yard box. Woodman, though, got there first before Vardy could pull the trigger.
Shortly afterwards, on the hour-mark, the ball grazed Fofana's forehead following superb wing-play from the evergreen Albrighton. Daniel Iversen, Preston's Player of the Season at the end of his loan spell from City last term, was then introduced to rapturous applause, replacing Schmeichel in the net.
Ayoze Pérez, on the other hand, was also brought on, with Albrighton the man to make way. Both sides will have felt aggrieved not to find the net soon after as Preston substitute Jordan Storey's powerful drive was instinctively clawed out of the near post by Iversen.
Rodgers' Premier League visitors countered, with flowing one-touch football involving Justin, Dewsbury-Hall and then Vardy, who hit a first-time effort over the bar. They got even closer when Maddison cut through the Preston defence and located Barnes. He could only find the base of the post, though.
That could have cost City had the linesman not raised his flag when Emil Riis Jakobsen – the hosts' top scorer last season – placed a loose ball past Iversen. While Leicester's attacking play impressed throughout, the latter stages offered a pre-season test of their defensive mettle too.
With Lowe's home side intent on rescuing a positive result just one week out from the outset of their league campaign, the Foxes' backline had to stand up. The competitiveness of the clash also showed as Storey, Benjamin Whiteman and Ched Evans all earned cautions in the final half an hour.
With the entirety of Leicester's back four playing the full 90 in Preston, it was a challenge they met. It could have been better, as Barnes fired straight at Woodman inside added time, but City nevertheless made it two wins from two on Saturday. Just a fortnight to go until the new Premier League season.
The sight of Jamie Vardy pouncing onto a through ball and bulging the net has been a frequent spectacle for the Blue Army over past seasons. To see the 35-year-old's potency on show in pre-season will be particularly exciting for the Foxes faithful ahead of the new campaign.
LCFC.COM
Iheanacho, Daka & Wright Seal Derby Win
Leicester City recorded back-to-back pre-season victories after beating Derby County 3-1 on Saturday at Pride Park.
After a first-half stalemate, Kelechi Iheanacho slammed a well-taken strike into the net for his maiden goal of pre-season before Derby's Tom Barkhuizen levelled matters 10 minutes later. But Patson Daka struck for the third time this pre-season and Callum Wright got himself on the scoresheet to win it for City.
With two fixtures falling on the same day, and a City side taking on Preston North End at Deepdale under the guidance of manager Brendan Rodgers two hours after the clash with Derby, assistant manager Chris Davies took the team at Pride Park.
The starting XI in Derbyshire was captained by Youri Tielemans, while fellow midfielder Wilfred Ndidi was back available after missing the fixtures away to Notts County, OH Leuven and Hull City with an ankle sprain.
Prior to kick-off, there was a period of applause in memory of former Derby County inside forward Jack Parry, who sadly passed away this week. Both sides also wore black armbands in tribute to Derby's fifth all-time appearance maker.
Starting in a 5-3-2 stratagem, and backed by a healthy Blue Army contingent in the East Midlands, the Foxes were tasked with defending against a direct Barkhuizen run in the opening 10 minutes. Turkey's Çağlar Söyüncü got in the way, before the Derby No.7 followed up with an effort that deflected behind.
City were growing into the game, and only a well-timed challenge from Curtis Davies on the quarter-hour mark prevented Iheanacho from latching onto Daka's touch after good work from Tielemans in the build-up.
More positive play from the Foxes soon followed, with Dennis Praet sweeping a pass out to England Under-21s international Luke Thomas on the left wing. The full-back cut inside onto his right boot and curled into the arms of Joe Wildsmith.
A sublime pass from Tielemans created the next chance for City, with the Belgian international locating a well-timed run from countryman Praet. The No.26 sent the ball across the face of goal, Daka missed it and then Thomas cut it back to Iheanacho, whose effort was cleared off the line.
Leicester were finding their rhythm, and after Iheanacho rolled a pass into the path of Daka, the Zambia striker sprinted towards goal, but placed his attempt into the side-netting. Then, Thomas delivered into the No.29, who fired wide at the near post. Chances aplenty for the visitors.
Having created much in the opening stages, Tielemans switched his tact and went for goal on 27 minutes, however Davies dipped his head and got in the way of the powerful 20-yard drive. Not long after, a good save from Wildsmith with his legs prevented Daka from slotting in Timothy Castagne's delivery, although the offside flag was eventually raised.
Derby's threat now switched to the counter-attack, with Barkhuizen leading the charge. A show of pace down the left flank nearly set up an opportunity, however Ghana centre-back Daniel Amartey read the run perfectly, with his tackle winning a goal-kick for the men in blue.
Before the first half came to a close, Davies headed away a clipped pass from Praet, Wildsmith held onto a Thomas delivery and Iheanacho lifted a free-kick over the crossbar. City looked encouraging, but were unable to break down the Rams in the opening 45 minutes.
Ten minutes into the second half, the deadlock was broken by the visitors. Tielemans picked out Castagne on the right flank, and the full-back squared to Iheanacho, who took a touch to set himself before smashing into the bottom corner for 1-0.
With just over an hour under his belt, Ndidi made way and on came Senegal AFCON winner Papy Mendy in a like-for-like substitution. Shortly after, though, Barkhuizen side-footed past Jakub Stolarczyk to restore parity at Pride Park.
A trio of Belgians combined on 70 minutes, with Castagne eventually picking out Praet, whose first-time attempt was blocked by the body of James Chester. A snapshot strike from Daka then flew off target as City went in search of a winner.
Daka continued to be a danger to Derby's goal, with the Zambian squeezing a shot on goal that Wildsmith was equal to. At the other end, Nathaniel Mendez-Laing sliced wide of the mark from inside the City box. On came Hamza Choudhury in place of Praet shortly after.
There was no doubting Leicester were in the ascendancy, and it was that man Daka, now with three goals in his last three pre-season outings, who would find the target with a cool finish - 11 minutes remained at Pride Park.
In the closing stages, goalscorer Iheanacho was replaced by young midfielder Wright, who soon made it 3-1 after pouncing on Wildsmith's save from Tielemans, having only been on the pitch for four minutes.
An ambitious effort from Daka on 90 minutes nearly saw him lob Wildsmith from significant range, before Stolarczyk had to make amends by pulling off an excellent save in stoppage time.
Although the Foxes were good value for their 1-0 advantage after Kelechi Iheanacho fired beyond Joe Wildsmith on 55 minutes, Tom Barkhuizen's leveller meant the fixture was heading for a draw. However, a well-timed run from Patson Daka led to the Zambia frontman netting his third goal of pre-season before Callum Wright added another.
LCFC.COM
Leicester City recorded back-to-back pre-season victories after beating Derby County 3-1 on Saturday at Pride Park.
After a first-half stalemate, Kelechi Iheanacho slammed a well-taken strike into the net for his maiden goal of pre-season before Derby's Tom Barkhuizen levelled matters 10 minutes later. But Patson Daka struck for the third time this pre-season and Callum Wright got himself on the scoresheet to win it for City.
With two fixtures falling on the same day, and a City side taking on Preston North End at Deepdale under the guidance of manager Brendan Rodgers two hours after the clash with Derby, assistant manager Chris Davies took the team at Pride Park.
The starting XI in Derbyshire was captained by Youri Tielemans, while fellow midfielder Wilfred Ndidi was back available after missing the fixtures away to Notts County, OH Leuven and Hull City with an ankle sprain.
Prior to kick-off, there was a period of applause in memory of former Derby County inside forward Jack Parry, who sadly passed away this week. Both sides also wore black armbands in tribute to Derby's fifth all-time appearance maker.
Starting in a 5-3-2 stratagem, and backed by a healthy Blue Army contingent in the East Midlands, the Foxes were tasked with defending against a direct Barkhuizen run in the opening 10 minutes. Turkey's Çağlar Söyüncü got in the way, before the Derby No.7 followed up with an effort that deflected behind.
City were growing into the game, and only a well-timed challenge from Curtis Davies on the quarter-hour mark prevented Iheanacho from latching onto Daka's touch after good work from Tielemans in the build-up.
More positive play from the Foxes soon followed, with Dennis Praet sweeping a pass out to England Under-21s international Luke Thomas on the left wing. The full-back cut inside onto his right boot and curled into the arms of Joe Wildsmith.
A sublime pass from Tielemans created the next chance for City, with the Belgian international locating a well-timed run from countryman Praet. The No.26 sent the ball across the face of goal, Daka missed it and then Thomas cut it back to Iheanacho, whose effort was cleared off the line.
Leicester were finding their rhythm, and after Iheanacho rolled a pass into the path of Daka, the Zambia striker sprinted towards goal, but placed his attempt into the side-netting. Then, Thomas delivered into the No.29, who fired wide at the near post. Chances aplenty for the visitors.
Having created much in the opening stages, Tielemans switched his tact and went for goal on 27 minutes, however Davies dipped his head and got in the way of the powerful 20-yard drive. Not long after, a good save from Wildsmith with his legs prevented Daka from slotting in Timothy Castagne's delivery, although the offside flag was eventually raised.
Derby's threat now switched to the counter-attack, with Barkhuizen leading the charge. A show of pace down the left flank nearly set up an opportunity, however Ghana centre-back Daniel Amartey read the run perfectly, with his tackle winning a goal-kick for the men in blue.
Before the first half came to a close, Davies headed away a clipped pass from Praet, Wildsmith held onto a Thomas delivery and Iheanacho lifted a free-kick over the crossbar. City looked encouraging, but were unable to break down the Rams in the opening 45 minutes.
Ten minutes into the second half, the deadlock was broken by the visitors. Tielemans picked out Castagne on the right flank, and the full-back squared to Iheanacho, who took a touch to set himself before smashing into the bottom corner for 1-0.
With just over an hour under his belt, Ndidi made way and on came Senegal AFCON winner Papy Mendy in a like-for-like substitution. Shortly after, though, Barkhuizen side-footed past Jakub Stolarczyk to restore parity at Pride Park.
A trio of Belgians combined on 70 minutes, with Castagne eventually picking out Praet, whose first-time attempt was blocked by the body of James Chester. A snapshot strike from Daka then flew off target as City went in search of a winner.
Daka continued to be a danger to Derby's goal, with the Zambian squeezing a shot on goal that Wildsmith was equal to. At the other end, Nathaniel Mendez-Laing sliced wide of the mark from inside the City box. On came Hamza Choudhury in place of Praet shortly after.
There was no doubting Leicester were in the ascendancy, and it was that man Daka, now with three goals in his last three pre-season outings, who would find the target with a cool finish - 11 minutes remained at Pride Park.
In the closing stages, goalscorer Iheanacho was replaced by young midfielder Wright, who soon made it 3-1 after pouncing on Wildsmith's save from Tielemans, having only been on the pitch for four minutes.
An ambitious effort from Daka on 90 minutes nearly saw him lob Wildsmith from significant range, before Stolarczyk had to make amends by pulling off an excellent save in stoppage time.
Although the Foxes were good value for their 1-0 advantage after Kelechi Iheanacho fired beyond Joe Wildsmith on 55 minutes, Tom Barkhuizen's leveller meant the fixture was heading for a draw. However, a well-timed run from Patson Daka led to the Zambia frontman netting his third goal of pre-season before Callum Wright added another.
LCFC.COM
Newcastle target Leicester forward as part of swoop for £90m Premier League pair
Leicester have slapped a £50m price tag on Harvey Barnes as Newcastle target the winger along with a second Premier League forward.
The Magpies have already spent close to £60m this summer, with Sven Botman joining from Lille, Nick Pope making the move from Burnley and Matt Targett making his loan move from Aston Villa permanent.
But Eddie Howe wants to add forwards to his ranks and he’s reportedly very keen on Barnes. The 24-year-old endured an injury-hit season in 2021-22 but is still valued highly by the Foxes, with The Sun claiming the club won’t listen to offers below £50m. That’s likely to put Newcastle off the deal with their stance of refusing to offer over the odds for potential new additions to the squad.
And that’s also the case when it comes to their chase of Everton star Anthony Gordon. Newcastle reportedly value the England Under-21 international at £25m but the Toffees want £40m for his transfer. But their chase of Gordon is perhaps more likely to be successful given Everton’s financial problems and Frank Lampard’s inability to add significantly to his squad without player sales.
Howe is also said to be interested in Leeds winger Jack Harrison, who could be a cheap alternative to Barnes, with Newcastle said to have offered £18m. Leeds boss Jesse Marsch has now responded to these comments, suggesting that Harrison’s “intention” is to remain at Leeds. “Jack unintentionally brought attention to the whole situation because, for sure, his intention is to be with us,” said Marsch (via Leeds Live).
“Even when I mentioned about [how] we listen to lots of offers for lots of players, that’s the reality of what our business is. “There’s always interest in our players because we have quality players. We’re in the top league in the world, but we feel strongly the guys we have within our group right now can help us be really successful and Jack is certainly one of those.
“Jack really didn’t mean to bring any attention to it and I’m sure he’ll have his chance to give his side of things, but I know he’s happy here. I know he loves playing for the club and he and I have a great relationship, and he knows how important I think he is to what we’re doing here in the future.”
Football 365
Leicester have slapped a £50m price tag on Harvey Barnes as Newcastle target the winger along with a second Premier League forward.
The Magpies have already spent close to £60m this summer, with Sven Botman joining from Lille, Nick Pope making the move from Burnley and Matt Targett making his loan move from Aston Villa permanent.
But Eddie Howe wants to add forwards to his ranks and he’s reportedly very keen on Barnes. The 24-year-old endured an injury-hit season in 2021-22 but is still valued highly by the Foxes, with The Sun claiming the club won’t listen to offers below £50m. That’s likely to put Newcastle off the deal with their stance of refusing to offer over the odds for potential new additions to the squad.
And that’s also the case when it comes to their chase of Everton star Anthony Gordon. Newcastle reportedly value the England Under-21 international at £25m but the Toffees want £40m for his transfer. But their chase of Gordon is perhaps more likely to be successful given Everton’s financial problems and Frank Lampard’s inability to add significantly to his squad without player sales.
Howe is also said to be interested in Leeds winger Jack Harrison, who could be a cheap alternative to Barnes, with Newcastle said to have offered £18m. Leeds boss Jesse Marsch has now responded to these comments, suggesting that Harrison’s “intention” is to remain at Leeds. “Jack unintentionally brought attention to the whole situation because, for sure, his intention is to be with us,” said Marsch (via Leeds Live).
“Even when I mentioned about [how] we listen to lots of offers for lots of players, that’s the reality of what our business is. “There’s always interest in our players because we have quality players. We’re in the top league in the world, but we feel strongly the guys we have within our group right now can help us be really successful and Jack is certainly one of those.
“Jack really didn’t mean to bring any attention to it and I’m sure he’ll have his chance to give his side of things, but I know he’s happy here. I know he loves playing for the club and he and I have a great relationship, and he knows how important I think he is to what we’re doing here in the future.”
Football 365
Midfielder sale could help Foxes with FFP
Arsenal will still look to sign Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans despite Oleksandr Zinchenko’s arrival at the Emirates Stadium, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.
Zinchenko has been unveiled as the Gunners’ latest acquisition after a £32million deal was struck with Manchester City, but Tielemans remains among boss Mikel Arteta’s targets.
Uncertainty remains over where Tielemans will be plying his trade next season as he has entered the final 12 months of his £120,000-per-week contract at Leicester and not been interested in extending his stay at the King Power Stadium.
Arsenal are understood to be confident of fending off competition from Premier League rivals Manchester United and sealing the Belgian’s arrival for £30million before the September 1 transfer deadline.
It appears the Gunners are right to be optimistic of winning the race for Tielemans’ signature as he would reportedly favour a move to the Emirates Stadium over linking up with the Red Devils. CBS reporter Ben Jacobs has previously told GIVEMESPORT that the central midfielder has already agreed personal terms with Arsenal.
Leicester could be forced into selling Tielemans for a cut-price fee because there are fears that they may otherwise fail to comply with Financial Fair Play restrictions.
Sheth is insistent that Tielemans remains among Arsenal’s summer targets despite Zinchenko’s arrival in north London. The Sky Sports reporter believes Arteta will be viewing the Ukrainian primarily as a left-back, meaning he would still be in the market for a central midfielderWhen asked whether Zinchenko’s acquisition will have an impact on Arsenal’s interest in Tielemans, Sheth told GIVEMESPORT: “No, not necessarily because Zinchenko has been predominantly used as a left-back.
“I think Arteta would have looked at it and thought ‘I had issues in that area when Kieran Tierney was injured, so I can use him in various positions’.”
Give Me Sport
Arsenal will still look to sign Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans despite Oleksandr Zinchenko’s arrival at the Emirates Stadium, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.
Zinchenko has been unveiled as the Gunners’ latest acquisition after a £32million deal was struck with Manchester City, but Tielemans remains among boss Mikel Arteta’s targets.
Uncertainty remains over where Tielemans will be plying his trade next season as he has entered the final 12 months of his £120,000-per-week contract at Leicester and not been interested in extending his stay at the King Power Stadium.
Arsenal are understood to be confident of fending off competition from Premier League rivals Manchester United and sealing the Belgian’s arrival for £30million before the September 1 transfer deadline.
It appears the Gunners are right to be optimistic of winning the race for Tielemans’ signature as he would reportedly favour a move to the Emirates Stadium over linking up with the Red Devils. CBS reporter Ben Jacobs has previously told GIVEMESPORT that the central midfielder has already agreed personal terms with Arsenal.
Leicester could be forced into selling Tielemans for a cut-price fee because there are fears that they may otherwise fail to comply with Financial Fair Play restrictions.
Sheth is insistent that Tielemans remains among Arsenal’s summer targets despite Zinchenko’s arrival in north London. The Sky Sports reporter believes Arteta will be viewing the Ukrainian primarily as a left-back, meaning he would still be in the market for a central midfielderWhen asked whether Zinchenko’s acquisition will have an impact on Arsenal’s interest in Tielemans, Sheth told GIVEMESPORT: “No, not necessarily because Zinchenko has been predominantly used as a left-back.
“I think Arteta would have looked at it and thought ‘I had issues in that area when Kieran Tierney was injured, so I can use him in various positions’.”
Give Me Sport
Four-Goal Leicester Defeat Hull In Pre-Season
Leicester City secured their maiden pre-season victory of the summer with a 4-0 success over Hull City at MKM Stadium on Wednesday night.
Patson Daka opened the scoring for the Foxes ahead of the interval, before second-half goals from Harvey Barnes, Wesley Fofana and James Maddison ensured it would be the visitors who received the inaugural Corendon Cup at full-time.
While goalkeeper Daniel Iversen played the full 90 in East Yorkshire, there were 10 different starters in each half for Brendan Rodgers' men – handing each outfield player another 45 minutes following friendlies against Notts County and OH Leuven so far this summer.
City, adorning their new 2022/23 adidas home kit, kicked off on a mild evening against the Tigers, themselves sporting an unfamiliar white and red colourway. The visitors dominated much of the early possession, although they had to wait until the 10th minute to carve out the first true opportunity.
Papy Mendy fed Ayoze Pérez in a central position, before the Spaniard slipped a through ball into Daka, who had Hull defender Tobias Figueiredo for company. The Zambia international, though, was nonetheless able to unleash a low drive at Matt Ingram's net, skidding it wide of the far post.
Shota Arveladze's second tier outfit, who begin their campaign on 30 July, also posed a threat. Brave defending from Jannik Vestergaard was required in a congested area on 16 minutes when Sean McLoughlin swung a corner in, while Iversen also did well to punch Regan Slater's cross away.
At the other end, Youri Tielemans glided a corner of his own into Hull's box and it was deflected towards Çağlar Söyüncü, whose header lacked the power required to test Ingram. Elsewhere, an audacious free-kick from Ozan Tufan – a Turkey team-mate of Söyüncü's – flew past Iversen's far post.
On the half-hour mark, Leicester led. Their high-press paid off when Dennis Praet combined with Daka to pinch the ball away from Jean Michael Seri, before City's No.29 raced through the Tigers' backline and slotted the ball into the near corner. That was his second strike of the summer so far.
An XI including Jamie Vardy, Fofana and Maddison emerged for the second period in Hull, as Rodgers loaded more valuable pre-season minutes into the legs of another 10 players. Within three minutes, it was 2-0 to the Foxes, with Barnes also doubling his summer goals tally.
It would not have been possible, however, without an ambitious charge forwards from Boubakary Soumaré, as the Frenchman worked his way into a pocket of space, teeing up Barnes. On the left angle of the area, the Academy graduate then took a touch and drilled a deflected effort beyond Ingram's reach.
A bright opening to the second 45 got better for Rodgers' visitors too. A tidy touch from Maddison, on the right flank, was followed by a precise ball into the area – inviting Fofana to glance his header, via the post, into the back of the net. Leicester were on the front foot as nightfall fell.
Soumaré then launched a powerful half-volley straight at the Tigers 'keeper, while Maddison fizzed a free-kick wide from 20 yards out. With 73 minutes on the clock, Hull provided a reminder of their attacking danger, with Jacob Greaves heading Seri's free-kick narrowly the wrong side of Iversen's far post.
Another stylish goal was added to the collection with six minutes remaining, though. It began with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall threading a pass through to Maddison. City's No.10 then spun on the spot, past McLoughlin, before also turning Greaves and locating the bottom corner from just inside the box.
Fresh from netting in City's 3-3 draw at Belgian sister club OH Leuven at the weekend, Patson Daka continued his goalscoring form in Hull, converting a composed finish on 29 minutes. It offered a starting point for Leicester, who would add another three goals on the night.
LCFC.COM
Leicester City secured their maiden pre-season victory of the summer with a 4-0 success over Hull City at MKM Stadium on Wednesday night.
Patson Daka opened the scoring for the Foxes ahead of the interval, before second-half goals from Harvey Barnes, Wesley Fofana and James Maddison ensured it would be the visitors who received the inaugural Corendon Cup at full-time.
While goalkeeper Daniel Iversen played the full 90 in East Yorkshire, there were 10 different starters in each half for Brendan Rodgers' men – handing each outfield player another 45 minutes following friendlies against Notts County and OH Leuven so far this summer.
City, adorning their new 2022/23 adidas home kit, kicked off on a mild evening against the Tigers, themselves sporting an unfamiliar white and red colourway. The visitors dominated much of the early possession, although they had to wait until the 10th minute to carve out the first true opportunity.
Papy Mendy fed Ayoze Pérez in a central position, before the Spaniard slipped a through ball into Daka, who had Hull defender Tobias Figueiredo for company. The Zambia international, though, was nonetheless able to unleash a low drive at Matt Ingram's net, skidding it wide of the far post.
Shota Arveladze's second tier outfit, who begin their campaign on 30 July, also posed a threat. Brave defending from Jannik Vestergaard was required in a congested area on 16 minutes when Sean McLoughlin swung a corner in, while Iversen also did well to punch Regan Slater's cross away.
At the other end, Youri Tielemans glided a corner of his own into Hull's box and it was deflected towards Çağlar Söyüncü, whose header lacked the power required to test Ingram. Elsewhere, an audacious free-kick from Ozan Tufan – a Turkey team-mate of Söyüncü's – flew past Iversen's far post.
On the half-hour mark, Leicester led. Their high-press paid off when Dennis Praet combined with Daka to pinch the ball away from Jean Michael Seri, before City's No.29 raced through the Tigers' backline and slotted the ball into the near corner. That was his second strike of the summer so far.
An XI including Jamie Vardy, Fofana and Maddison emerged for the second period in Hull, as Rodgers loaded more valuable pre-season minutes into the legs of another 10 players. Within three minutes, it was 2-0 to the Foxes, with Barnes also doubling his summer goals tally.
It would not have been possible, however, without an ambitious charge forwards from Boubakary Soumaré, as the Frenchman worked his way into a pocket of space, teeing up Barnes. On the left angle of the area, the Academy graduate then took a touch and drilled a deflected effort beyond Ingram's reach.
A bright opening to the second 45 got better for Rodgers' visitors too. A tidy touch from Maddison, on the right flank, was followed by a precise ball into the area – inviting Fofana to glance his header, via the post, into the back of the net. Leicester were on the front foot as nightfall fell.
Soumaré then launched a powerful half-volley straight at the Tigers 'keeper, while Maddison fizzed a free-kick wide from 20 yards out. With 73 minutes on the clock, Hull provided a reminder of their attacking danger, with Jacob Greaves heading Seri's free-kick narrowly the wrong side of Iversen's far post.
Another stylish goal was added to the collection with six minutes remaining, though. It began with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall threading a pass through to Maddison. City's No.10 then spun on the spot, past McLoughlin, before also turning Greaves and locating the bottom corner from just inside the box.
Fresh from netting in City's 3-3 draw at Belgian sister club OH Leuven at the weekend, Patson Daka continued his goalscoring form in Hull, converting a composed finish on 29 minutes. It offered a starting point for Leicester, who would add another three goals on the night.
LCFC.COM
Leicester City fans far less hopeful than this time last season
• Fans were asked how optimistic they are for the upcoming season as part of Sky Bet’s Fan Hope research
• On a scale of 1-10 (1 being not optimistic at all, 10 being very optimistic) Leicester City fans scored a 6.7
• This time last season Foxes fans scored 8.41
Ahead of the new Premier League season, fans have been sharing their levels of optimism as part of the latest Sky Bet Fan Hope Survey.
On a scale of 1-10 (1 being not optimistic at all, 10 being very optimistic), Foxes fans scored 6.7, placing them 9th in the Sky Bet Fan Hope table. This varies from this time last season, where optimistic Leicester fans scored an 8.41, as they predicted a top four finish.
There certainly isn’t pessimism at King Power Stadium though, with the overwhelming feeling from fans heading into the new season is excitement (71%). However, only 14% of Foxes fans feel confident, with 3% dreading the start of the new campaign.
When it comes to transfer activity, Leicester fans want to see the arrival on an attacking midfielder, with 30% of fans claiming that is where they need to strengthen.
Research was completed by Sky Bet in partnership with YouGov, and surveyed 1,600 UK adults aged 18+ who are fans of the associated clubs.
• Fans were asked how optimistic they are for the upcoming season as part of Sky Bet’s Fan Hope research
• On a scale of 1-10 (1 being not optimistic at all, 10 being very optimistic) Leicester City fans scored a 6.7
• This time last season Foxes fans scored 8.41
Ahead of the new Premier League season, fans have been sharing their levels of optimism as part of the latest Sky Bet Fan Hope Survey.
On a scale of 1-10 (1 being not optimistic at all, 10 being very optimistic), Foxes fans scored 6.7, placing them 9th in the Sky Bet Fan Hope table. This varies from this time last season, where optimistic Leicester fans scored an 8.41, as they predicted a top four finish.
There certainly isn’t pessimism at King Power Stadium though, with the overwhelming feeling from fans heading into the new season is excitement (71%). However, only 14% of Foxes fans feel confident, with 3% dreading the start of the new campaign.
When it comes to transfer activity, Leicester fans want to see the arrival on an attacking midfielder, with 30% of fans claiming that is where they need to strengthen.
Research was completed by Sky Bet in partnership with YouGov, and surveyed 1,600 UK adults aged 18+ who are fans of the associated clubs.
Tielemans to discuss Leicester future
Youri Tielemans will sit down to discuss his Leicester City future with manager Brendan Rodgers this week.
He currently has one year left on his existing contract and has consistently refused offers of a new deal.
Arsenal have been long-time admirers of the midfielder but the £34m signing of Fabio Vieira, who plays in a similar role to Tielemans, means they are unlikely to pursue a deal with Leicester right now.
Manchester United and Newcastle are also reportedly interested in Tielemans, though they have yet to make any concrete offers.
Sky Sports News reported last month that Leicester are keen to tie the Belgium international down with a one-year contract extension, in order to prevent him leaving on a free transfer next summer. Tielemans is open to that possibility if no suitable transfer offer emerges before the end of this window.
But Rodgers wants more clarity on Tielemans' intentions, with the club needing to sell players before they can spend on any new talent.
Leicester are currently the only Premier League side yet to sign any new players for the season which starts in less than three weeks.
Tielemans returned to pre-season last week, joining the rest of the Leicester squad for their training camp in Evian, France.
"He's happy in his work and he's happy at the club," Rodgers has said. "But naturally with a year in his contract he may feel he has to look at everything for him and his family. But I certainly know he's committed while he is here.
“I'll have a good chat with Youri to get privately what he's thinking. But it won't change, whether he's leaving or staying for another five years, he'll still be super committed."
Sky Sports
Youri Tielemans will sit down to discuss his Leicester City future with manager Brendan Rodgers this week.
He currently has one year left on his existing contract and has consistently refused offers of a new deal.
Arsenal have been long-time admirers of the midfielder but the £34m signing of Fabio Vieira, who plays in a similar role to Tielemans, means they are unlikely to pursue a deal with Leicester right now.
Manchester United and Newcastle are also reportedly interested in Tielemans, though they have yet to make any concrete offers.
Sky Sports News reported last month that Leicester are keen to tie the Belgium international down with a one-year contract extension, in order to prevent him leaving on a free transfer next summer. Tielemans is open to that possibility if no suitable transfer offer emerges before the end of this window.
But Rodgers wants more clarity on Tielemans' intentions, with the club needing to sell players before they can spend on any new talent.
Leicester are currently the only Premier League side yet to sign any new players for the season which starts in less than three weeks.
Tielemans returned to pre-season last week, joining the rest of the Leicester squad for their training camp in Evian, France.
"He's happy in his work and he's happy at the club," Rodgers has said. "But naturally with a year in his contract he may feel he has to look at everything for him and his family. But I certainly know he's committed while he is here.
“I'll have a good chat with Youri to get privately what he's thinking. But it won't change, whether he's leaving or staying for another five years, he'll still be super committed."
Sky Sports
Six-Goal Draw As King Power Clubs Face Off In Leuven
Across two hours of football split up into three periods, City fielded 26 players, of which 22 played an hour, with strikes from Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Patson Daka and Jamie Vardy sealing a draw in Belgium.
After a week of intense training in Évian-les-Bains, the Foxes made the hour-long flight to the beautiful city of Leuven to tackle OH Leuven, who laid on a family fun day for both sets of supporters in the build-up to a match that celebrated five years of King Power International's ownership of the host outfit.
As expected, midfielder Wilfred Ndidi (ankle) was not involved, however Hamza Choudhury had successfully shaken off a knock to take a spot on the bench. With Chairman of both clubs, Khun Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, watching on, the first-half XI saw manager Brendan Rodgers hand the captain's armband to centre-back Jonny Evans, who, like many other Foxes, made his first appearance of the summer schedule.
OH Leuven, who were contesting their final pre-season fixture before their Jupiler Pro League campaign gets underway, were straight out of the blocks as Mousa Al-Tamari curled home past Daniel Iversen inside the first minute. A shoulder-to-shoulder challenge from Wesley Fofana and then a lovely right-handed save then denied the Leuven No.11 on two separate occasions.
Not content with their early goal, Leuven were continuing to apply the pressure. This time, Boubakary Soumaré stopped Mathieu Maertens' low drive. Leicester grew into the game, allowing Ayoze Pérez to venture forward and force a good save out of Valentin Cojocaru, who did well to claw the ball out of the bottom corner. Soon, though, the hosts capitalised on another goalscoring opportunity. Former Denmark youth international Iversen was beaten to the ball by Nachon Nsingi, the forward then nodded it into his own path and tapped in for 2-0 on 12 minutes.
The men in all blue - playing in the 2022/23 home kit in front of the travelling Blue Army for the first time - looked for a response, with Ricardo Pereira crossing into Dewsbury-Hall, however the Academy graduate was unable to direct his header on target and was later deemed to be offside. Cojocaru then held onto Daka's low delivery, while Nsingi nodded a Maertens cross off target. James Maddison looked lively in the Belgium sun, twice seeing efforts deflect away either side of a good piece of defending from Evans to stop Nsingi's run towards goal. Fellow midfielder Dewsbury-Hall, from a slightly deeper position, then fired low at Cojocaru, who held onto the attempt.
After, Maertens had a goal chalked off for offside Raphael Holzhauser bent a left-footed free-kick wide. Excellent footwork from Harvey Barnes on 33 minutes, meanwhile, called Cojocaru into action, as the No.7 drifted past his marker before smashing a strike towards the near post. Barnes turned provider not long after, teeing up James Justin, who curled towards goal, but Cojocaru was once again in the way and Daka couldn't quite get to the follow up. Then, the winger stood the ball up to Pérez at the far post, and the Spaniard connected well with a header, however he couldn't beat Cojocaru.
City were desperately unfortunate not to halve the deficit in added time, with Barnes beating his man and curling towards the bottom corner, but Cojocaru made the save, and then Daka pounced on the loose ball only for his strike to be blocked on the line. The first 45 minutes came to a close. Into the second period, Leicester reduced their deficit to a single goal thanks to a brilliantly-executed goal from Dewsbury-Hall. The No.22 picked the ball up, drove forward and curled into the bottom corner with his left boot.
Evans got in the way of Al-Tamari's attempt from inside the City box 10 minutes after the break, while Ewoud Pletinckx stood strong to prevent Maddison's shot from testing Cojocaru. Maddison's quick thinking helped City get on level terms. After Soumaré won a free-kick, the No.10 took it immediately and a superb pass located the head of Daka, who nodded in for 2-2. Moments later, on the hour mark, a new XI took to the pitch, skippered by Vardy, allowing 22 players to gather 60 minutes of match action each.
With nine minutes of the second 45 to go, Nigeria frontman Kelechi Iheanacho gathered the ball and turned just inside the area before slamming inches wide in front of a healthy contingent of City supporters. Substitute goalkeeper Nordin Jackers denied Iheanacho in the next attack, as the visiting outfit continued their quest for a third of the afternoon. Closing in on the 90-minute mark, and still with 30 minutes of additional time to play, Maertens smashed a half-volley harmlessly over Jakub Stolarczyk's crossbar. Youri Tielemans nearly set up Iheanacho in the opposite half, however a well-timed tackle prevented him from pulling the trigger.
After the match entered the final half-an-hour, Leuven were back in front after Daniel Amartey was dispossessed and Mykola Kukharevych slotted in on 92 minutes. In the hunt for more, substitute Richie Sagrado lifted well off target two minutes later. Dennis Praet, himself born in Leuven, struck towards the net 10 minutes into the final 30, however Marc Brys' side did well to defend and retained their one-goal advantage. Not long after, the No.26 drilled into the arms of Jacker.
Leicester's pressure told in the 101st minute. Following some good closing down from Tielemans, Vardy was alert to a defensive error and tucked home his first goal of pre-season to make it three goals apiece at King Power at Den Dreef Stadion. A golden opportunity for Iheanacho to put Leicester in front for the first time in the game followed, the striker glancing Belgium international Timothy Castagne's well-weighted pass over the crossbar.
With just over 10 minutes left on the clock, on came Hamza Choudhury, Marc Albrighton, Sammy Braybrooke and Callum Wright, allowing a further four players to experience friendly action at the end of a busy week for the Club's stars. On the volley, Vardy flicked the ball towards goal, only for Jacker to cling onto the attempt on 112 minutes, while with three minutes remaining, Milan Taildeman struck from distance but found the body of Turkey centre-back Çağlar Söyüncü in his way. That brought to an end the 120-minute encounter in Belgium.
The Foxes did well to first recover from a two-goal deficit before they again drew level when Jamie Vardy, off the bench, converted a loose ball in the OH Leuven area.
That's the way it finished at King Power at Den Dreef Stadion, despite Vardy having a late chance to pinch the victory for his side.
LCFC.Com
Across two hours of football split up into three periods, City fielded 26 players, of which 22 played an hour, with strikes from Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Patson Daka and Jamie Vardy sealing a draw in Belgium.
After a week of intense training in Évian-les-Bains, the Foxes made the hour-long flight to the beautiful city of Leuven to tackle OH Leuven, who laid on a family fun day for both sets of supporters in the build-up to a match that celebrated five years of King Power International's ownership of the host outfit.
As expected, midfielder Wilfred Ndidi (ankle) was not involved, however Hamza Choudhury had successfully shaken off a knock to take a spot on the bench. With Chairman of both clubs, Khun Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, watching on, the first-half XI saw manager Brendan Rodgers hand the captain's armband to centre-back Jonny Evans, who, like many other Foxes, made his first appearance of the summer schedule.
OH Leuven, who were contesting their final pre-season fixture before their Jupiler Pro League campaign gets underway, were straight out of the blocks as Mousa Al-Tamari curled home past Daniel Iversen inside the first minute. A shoulder-to-shoulder challenge from Wesley Fofana and then a lovely right-handed save then denied the Leuven No.11 on two separate occasions.
Not content with their early goal, Leuven were continuing to apply the pressure. This time, Boubakary Soumaré stopped Mathieu Maertens' low drive. Leicester grew into the game, allowing Ayoze Pérez to venture forward and force a good save out of Valentin Cojocaru, who did well to claw the ball out of the bottom corner. Soon, though, the hosts capitalised on another goalscoring opportunity. Former Denmark youth international Iversen was beaten to the ball by Nachon Nsingi, the forward then nodded it into his own path and tapped in for 2-0 on 12 minutes.
The men in all blue - playing in the 2022/23 home kit in front of the travelling Blue Army for the first time - looked for a response, with Ricardo Pereira crossing into Dewsbury-Hall, however the Academy graduate was unable to direct his header on target and was later deemed to be offside. Cojocaru then held onto Daka's low delivery, while Nsingi nodded a Maertens cross off target. James Maddison looked lively in the Belgium sun, twice seeing efforts deflect away either side of a good piece of defending from Evans to stop Nsingi's run towards goal. Fellow midfielder Dewsbury-Hall, from a slightly deeper position, then fired low at Cojocaru, who held onto the attempt.
After, Maertens had a goal chalked off for offside Raphael Holzhauser bent a left-footed free-kick wide. Excellent footwork from Harvey Barnes on 33 minutes, meanwhile, called Cojocaru into action, as the No.7 drifted past his marker before smashing a strike towards the near post. Barnes turned provider not long after, teeing up James Justin, who curled towards goal, but Cojocaru was once again in the way and Daka couldn't quite get to the follow up. Then, the winger stood the ball up to Pérez at the far post, and the Spaniard connected well with a header, however he couldn't beat Cojocaru.
City were desperately unfortunate not to halve the deficit in added time, with Barnes beating his man and curling towards the bottom corner, but Cojocaru made the save, and then Daka pounced on the loose ball only for his strike to be blocked on the line. The first 45 minutes came to a close. Into the second period, Leicester reduced their deficit to a single goal thanks to a brilliantly-executed goal from Dewsbury-Hall. The No.22 picked the ball up, drove forward and curled into the bottom corner with his left boot.
Evans got in the way of Al-Tamari's attempt from inside the City box 10 minutes after the break, while Ewoud Pletinckx stood strong to prevent Maddison's shot from testing Cojocaru. Maddison's quick thinking helped City get on level terms. After Soumaré won a free-kick, the No.10 took it immediately and a superb pass located the head of Daka, who nodded in for 2-2. Moments later, on the hour mark, a new XI took to the pitch, skippered by Vardy, allowing 22 players to gather 60 minutes of match action each.
With nine minutes of the second 45 to go, Nigeria frontman Kelechi Iheanacho gathered the ball and turned just inside the area before slamming inches wide in front of a healthy contingent of City supporters. Substitute goalkeeper Nordin Jackers denied Iheanacho in the next attack, as the visiting outfit continued their quest for a third of the afternoon. Closing in on the 90-minute mark, and still with 30 minutes of additional time to play, Maertens smashed a half-volley harmlessly over Jakub Stolarczyk's crossbar. Youri Tielemans nearly set up Iheanacho in the opposite half, however a well-timed tackle prevented him from pulling the trigger.
After the match entered the final half-an-hour, Leuven were back in front after Daniel Amartey was dispossessed and Mykola Kukharevych slotted in on 92 minutes. In the hunt for more, substitute Richie Sagrado lifted well off target two minutes later. Dennis Praet, himself born in Leuven, struck towards the net 10 minutes into the final 30, however Marc Brys' side did well to defend and retained their one-goal advantage. Not long after, the No.26 drilled into the arms of Jacker.
Leicester's pressure told in the 101st minute. Following some good closing down from Tielemans, Vardy was alert to a defensive error and tucked home his first goal of pre-season to make it three goals apiece at King Power at Den Dreef Stadion. A golden opportunity for Iheanacho to put Leicester in front for the first time in the game followed, the striker glancing Belgium international Timothy Castagne's well-weighted pass over the crossbar.
With just over 10 minutes left on the clock, on came Hamza Choudhury, Marc Albrighton, Sammy Braybrooke and Callum Wright, allowing a further four players to experience friendly action at the end of a busy week for the Club's stars. On the volley, Vardy flicked the ball towards goal, only for Jacker to cling onto the attempt on 112 minutes, while with three minutes remaining, Milan Taildeman struck from distance but found the body of Turkey centre-back Çağlar Söyüncü in his way. That brought to an end the 120-minute encounter in Belgium.
The Foxes did well to first recover from a two-goal deficit before they again drew level when Jamie Vardy, off the bench, converted a loose ball in the OH Leuven area.
That's the way it finished at King Power at Den Dreef Stadion, despite Vardy having a late chance to pinch the victory for his side.
LCFC.Com
Leicester target Ibrahim Sangare ready to sign new PSV deal if transfer offer for midfielder doesn’t come soon
LEICESTER target Ibrahim Sangare is ready to sign a new deal with Dutch club PSV Eindhoven if an offer does not come in soon.
Midfield powerhouse Sangare, 24, has been wanted by Foxes boss Brendan Rodgers after impressing against his side in the Europa Conference League.
1
Ibrahim Sangare is ready to sign a new PSV contract if a Leicester transfer offer does not come soonCredit: GettyHowever, Leicester have not yet found a buyer for Youri Tielemans and so cannot join the bidding at the required £30million.
They will sell centre-half Jan Vestergaard and even striker Kelechi Iheanacho.
Sangare's current deal expires in 2025.
Reports last month claimed Manchester United and Chelsea are also both keen on Sangare.
Elsewhere Liverpool and Newcastle have both been linked.
The Ivorian registered four goals and provided four assists in 49 appearances across all competitions for PSV last season.
Sangare helped the club lift the Dutch Cup by beating new United manager Erik ten Hag's Ajax in the final.
He also played a key role in PSV's run to the Europa Conference League quarters.
The Sun
LEICESTER target Ibrahim Sangare is ready to sign a new deal with Dutch club PSV Eindhoven if an offer does not come in soon.
Midfield powerhouse Sangare, 24, has been wanted by Foxes boss Brendan Rodgers after impressing against his side in the Europa Conference League.
1
Ibrahim Sangare is ready to sign a new PSV contract if a Leicester transfer offer does not come soonCredit: GettyHowever, Leicester have not yet found a buyer for Youri Tielemans and so cannot join the bidding at the required £30million.
They will sell centre-half Jan Vestergaard and even striker Kelechi Iheanacho.
Sangare's current deal expires in 2025.
Reports last month claimed Manchester United and Chelsea are also both keen on Sangare.
Elsewhere Liverpool and Newcastle have both been linked.
The Ivorian registered four goals and provided four assists in 49 appearances across all competitions for PSV last season.
Sangare helped the club lift the Dutch Cup by beating new United manager Erik ten Hag's Ajax in the final.
He also played a key role in PSV's run to the Europa Conference League quarters.
The Sun
AC Milan 'believe' Leicester City are about to be dealt transfer hammer blow
AC Milan 'believe' they have beaten City and Leeds United to the signing of Club Brugge striker Charles De Ketelaere
AC Milan 'believe' they will beat Leicester City and Leeds United to the signing of Belgium striker Charles De Ketelaere.
City have been linked with the 21-year-old since the January transfer window with speculation continuing into the summer months. While it looked for a while that he was the most likely of City's targets to join, the situation has quickly changed and that seems to be no longer the case.
Italian giants AC Milan, who caused an upset by winning Serie A last season against the odds, are now on the verge of signing the player so highly rated by many. De Ketelaere caught the attention of clubs across Europe with his performances for Club Brugge last season, scoring 18 goals in 49 appearances across all competitions.
Journalist Ekrem Konur is now reporting that AC Milan 'believe' they have the edge over Leicester and Leeds United, who were also interested in signing the striker. Much of the talk in recent weeks surrounded the two Premier League sides, with AC Milan seemingly stepping up their interest to become the frontrunners.
This blow for Leicester means the wait for the first signing of the summer goes on. City and Chelsea are now the only two Premier League sides not to make a senior signing. That has been much to the frustration of fans, who were excited by Brendan Rodgers' talk of need for a 'healthy shake-up' of the squad this summer.
Leicestershire Live
AC Milan 'believe' they have beaten City and Leeds United to the signing of Club Brugge striker Charles De Ketelaere
AC Milan 'believe' they will beat Leicester City and Leeds United to the signing of Belgium striker Charles De Ketelaere.
City have been linked with the 21-year-old since the January transfer window with speculation continuing into the summer months. While it looked for a while that he was the most likely of City's targets to join, the situation has quickly changed and that seems to be no longer the case.
Italian giants AC Milan, who caused an upset by winning Serie A last season against the odds, are now on the verge of signing the player so highly rated by many. De Ketelaere caught the attention of clubs across Europe with his performances for Club Brugge last season, scoring 18 goals in 49 appearances across all competitions.
Journalist Ekrem Konur is now reporting that AC Milan 'believe' they have the edge over Leicester and Leeds United, who were also interested in signing the striker. Much of the talk in recent weeks surrounded the two Premier League sides, with AC Milan seemingly stepping up their interest to become the frontrunners.
This blow for Leicester means the wait for the first signing of the summer goes on. City and Chelsea are now the only two Premier League sides not to make a senior signing. That has been much to the frustration of fans, who were excited by Brendan Rodgers' talk of need for a 'healthy shake-up' of the squad this summer.
Leicestershire Live
Brendan Rodgers explains why Kasper Schmeichel will miss Leicester City's pre-season Evian trip
The captain is one of a number of City players yet to return to training, and he will not be among the group that goes away to France for a camp next week either
Kasper Schmeichel will not travel with the rest of the Leicester City squad to their pre-season camp at Evian with the captain afforded a longer break.
Schmeichel will be absent next week when Brendan Rodgers takes his team to the French town on the banks of Lake Geneva for a training trip. It is their second visit to Evian since Rodgers took charge, the club also spending a week there in 2019.
But while the rest of the squad will be present, Rodgers has said Schmeichel will not be linking up with his team-mates until afterwards. He is set for a busy season, with the goalkeeper due to be number one for Denmark at the World Cup in November and December.
“There’s a number of them who will join us next week,” Rodgers told LCFC TV after his side’s 2-1 defeat to Notts County in their pre-season opener on Saturday. "It’s been very broken, this first couple of weeks. A lot of the guys have just come in, the first-team squad, over the past four or five days.
“Another group of them will join us in Evian. Kasper will be the last one back in, I’ve given him some extra time. He’s going to the World Cup so he’s going to have a long period of games once he does come back, so he’s got that extra little bit of time. We’re looking forward to Evian.”
Schmeichel is one of plenty of City players who had international commitments in early June. Many of those players have now returned to training, including Patson Daka, Wesley Fofana, Jonny Evans, James Justin, Luke Thomas, Papy Mendy, and Caglar Soyuncu. Those who have not yet been seen at Seagrave are Danny Ward, Daniel Amartey, Jannik Vestergaard, Timothy Castagne, Youri Tielemans, and Dennis Praet.
Among that group, Schmeichel is far from the only player set to be at the World Cup in Qatar. Castagne and Tielemans are starters for Belgium, while Mendy has become a key player for Senegal, likewise Amartey with Ghana.
As such, Schmeichel’s absence is likely to prompt further questions over his future. City have scoured the goalkeeper market to check for potential signings, with Robert Sanchez of Brighton one of the players linked.
Schmeichel has one year remaining on his City contract, with the upcoming campaign his 12th at the club. He has been permanent captain since last summer, when Wes Morgan retired.
Leicestershire Live
The captain is one of a number of City players yet to return to training, and he will not be among the group that goes away to France for a camp next week either
Kasper Schmeichel will not travel with the rest of the Leicester City squad to their pre-season camp at Evian with the captain afforded a longer break.
Schmeichel will be absent next week when Brendan Rodgers takes his team to the French town on the banks of Lake Geneva for a training trip. It is their second visit to Evian since Rodgers took charge, the club also spending a week there in 2019.
But while the rest of the squad will be present, Rodgers has said Schmeichel will not be linking up with his team-mates until afterwards. He is set for a busy season, with the goalkeeper due to be number one for Denmark at the World Cup in November and December.
“There’s a number of them who will join us next week,” Rodgers told LCFC TV after his side’s 2-1 defeat to Notts County in their pre-season opener on Saturday. "It’s been very broken, this first couple of weeks. A lot of the guys have just come in, the first-team squad, over the past four or five days.
“Another group of them will join us in Evian. Kasper will be the last one back in, I’ve given him some extra time. He’s going to the World Cup so he’s going to have a long period of games once he does come back, so he’s got that extra little bit of time. We’re looking forward to Evian.”
Schmeichel is one of plenty of City players who had international commitments in early June. Many of those players have now returned to training, including Patson Daka, Wesley Fofana, Jonny Evans, James Justin, Luke Thomas, Papy Mendy, and Caglar Soyuncu. Those who have not yet been seen at Seagrave are Danny Ward, Daniel Amartey, Jannik Vestergaard, Timothy Castagne, Youri Tielemans, and Dennis Praet.
Among that group, Schmeichel is far from the only player set to be at the World Cup in Qatar. Castagne and Tielemans are starters for Belgium, while Mendy has become a key player for Senegal, likewise Amartey with Ghana.
As such, Schmeichel’s absence is likely to prompt further questions over his future. City have scoured the goalkeeper market to check for potential signings, with Robert Sanchez of Brighton one of the players linked.
Schmeichel has one year remaining on his City contract, with the upcoming campaign his 12th at the club. He has been permanent captain since last summer, when Wes Morgan retired.
Leicestershire Live
Leicester City 1-2 Notts County
Leicester suffered an embarrassing start to their pre-season campaign as they suffered a 2-1 defeat against non-league Notts County, despite scoring first.
Defenders Wesley Fofana and Ricardo Pereira both started in defence, but last season's set-piece woes reared their head once again as Brendan Rogers watched his side struggle to defend.
Harvey Barnes calmly opened the scoring after being played through for a one-on-one with the County goalkeeper.
Harvey Barnes opened the scoring after being played through one-on-one with the goalkeeper
But their lead lasted just over 10 minutes as Kairo Mitchell reacted quickest inside the box to pounce on a loose ball and score from a corner.
County scored from another set-piece situation to take the lead late in the game with Brendan Rogers' side unable to respond as they limped to a disappointing defeat behind closed doors.
Daily Mail
Leicester suffered an embarrassing start to their pre-season campaign as they suffered a 2-1 defeat against non-league Notts County, despite scoring first.
Defenders Wesley Fofana and Ricardo Pereira both started in defence, but last season's set-piece woes reared their head once again as Brendan Rogers watched his side struggle to defend.
Harvey Barnes calmly opened the scoring after being played through for a one-on-one with the County goalkeeper.
Harvey Barnes opened the scoring after being played through one-on-one with the goalkeeper
But their lead lasted just over 10 minutes as Kairo Mitchell reacted quickest inside the box to pounce on a loose ball and score from a corner.
County scored from another set-piece situation to take the lead late in the game with Brendan Rogers' side unable to respond as they limped to a disappointing defeat behind closed doors.
Daily Mail
Leicester City Women bring in two new faces
LCFC Women have secured the permanent signing of former Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Aileen Whelan, subject to approval following on from the signing of Wales international midfielder Josie Green.
Boasting extensive Barclays Women's Super League experience, the attacker – who can operate in midfield or as a forward - makes the move to Belvoir Drive following five successful years with the Seagulls, having joined the club from Everton in 2017.
Speaking to LCFC TV, Whelan said: "Hopefully I can bring some experience in and help the team get some results. My aim is to get on the scoresheet as much as possible and help LCFC Women finish higher up the table. "I know a few of the girls already from playing with them in other teams. It's nice knowing that when I come in for pre-season with the team, I have relationships with some of them already."
Whelan was a prominent member of the Brighton squad that won promotion to the WSL in 2018 - the division where the club has remained since and her versatility has seen her play in many positions across midfield and the front line.
The 30-year-old’s previous experience includes spells at MK Dons, Nottingham Forest, Notts County and Everton – who she signed for in 2017 ahead of her move to Brighton – as well as with England Under-23s.
29-year-old Green joins the Foxes with a wealth of experience having been a regular in the Barclays Women’s Super League for Spurs since their promotion as quadruple winners in the 2016/2017 season. Green was made captain of the side in the summer of 2020 and made a total of 15 appearances for Spurs last season – scoring once and helping the team to a fifth-place finish in the WSL.
Prior to joining the North London outfit, Green progressed through the youth ranks of Watford, making her senior debut for the Hornets during the 2010/11 FA Women's National League season. At international level, Green represents Wales. Her senior debut came at the age of just 16 as a substitute against Azerbaijan in the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup qualifiers and she remains a regular in the senior side.
Speaking to LCFC TV, Green said: "It’s really exciting to meet the girls and join the team. It’s a really exciting club to be a part of, so I’m looking forward to it. I’m ready for a new challenge."
Both players has now joined pre-season training at Belvoir Drive, linking up with their new team-mates for the first time this week.
LCFC.COM
LCFC Women have secured the permanent signing of former Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Aileen Whelan, subject to approval following on from the signing of Wales international midfielder Josie Green.
Boasting extensive Barclays Women's Super League experience, the attacker – who can operate in midfield or as a forward - makes the move to Belvoir Drive following five successful years with the Seagulls, having joined the club from Everton in 2017.
Speaking to LCFC TV, Whelan said: "Hopefully I can bring some experience in and help the team get some results. My aim is to get on the scoresheet as much as possible and help LCFC Women finish higher up the table. "I know a few of the girls already from playing with them in other teams. It's nice knowing that when I come in for pre-season with the team, I have relationships with some of them already."
Whelan was a prominent member of the Brighton squad that won promotion to the WSL in 2018 - the division where the club has remained since and her versatility has seen her play in many positions across midfield and the front line.
The 30-year-old’s previous experience includes spells at MK Dons, Nottingham Forest, Notts County and Everton – who she signed for in 2017 ahead of her move to Brighton – as well as with England Under-23s.
29-year-old Green joins the Foxes with a wealth of experience having been a regular in the Barclays Women’s Super League for Spurs since their promotion as quadruple winners in the 2016/2017 season. Green was made captain of the side in the summer of 2020 and made a total of 15 appearances for Spurs last season – scoring once and helping the team to a fifth-place finish in the WSL.
Prior to joining the North London outfit, Green progressed through the youth ranks of Watford, making her senior debut for the Hornets during the 2010/11 FA Women's National League season. At international level, Green represents Wales. Her senior debut came at the age of just 16 as a substitute against Azerbaijan in the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup qualifiers and she remains a regular in the senior side.
Speaking to LCFC TV, Green said: "It’s really exciting to meet the girls and join the team. It’s a really exciting club to be a part of, so I’m looking forward to it. I’m ready for a new challenge."
Both players has now joined pre-season training at Belvoir Drive, linking up with their new team-mates for the first time this week.
LCFC.COM
Leicester City bid 8m euros for Rennes' midfielder Benjamin Bourigeaud
French football journalist Sara Menai has told BBC Radio Leicester Sport that Leicester City have submitted an 8m euros (£6.8m) offer for Stade Rennes midfielder Benjamin Bourigeaud.
The French central midfielder played in both legs of the Europa Conference League last-16 tie against the Foxes in the latter stages of last season, scoring in the second leg at Roazhon Park.
The 28-year-old can play as a typical number eight, but can also operate in the more advanced number 10 position. This would favour Leicester City, as Brendan Rodgers leant more on the 4-3-3 formation towards the end of last season with success.
The figure of 8m euros for a player who reached double figures for both goals and assists last season may seem low, but he is in the final year of his contract at Stade Rennes, and is expected to leave the club this summer.
However, despite the low fee and consequently low risk nature of the transfer, the Foxes are still battling with their squad size ahead of the new Premier League season. It’s imperative that as the “refresh” touted by Brendan Rodgers begins to happen, that the backdoor at King Power Stadium also continues to revolve.
Owynn Palmer-Atkin, BBC Radio Leicester's Foxes reporter
French football journalist Sara Menai has told BBC Radio Leicester Sport that Leicester City have submitted an 8m euros (£6.8m) offer for Stade Rennes midfielder Benjamin Bourigeaud.
The French central midfielder played in both legs of the Europa Conference League last-16 tie against the Foxes in the latter stages of last season, scoring in the second leg at Roazhon Park.
The 28-year-old can play as a typical number eight, but can also operate in the more advanced number 10 position. This would favour Leicester City, as Brendan Rodgers leant more on the 4-3-3 formation towards the end of last season with success.
The figure of 8m euros for a player who reached double figures for both goals and assists last season may seem low, but he is in the final year of his contract at Stade Rennes, and is expected to leave the club this summer.
However, despite the low fee and consequently low risk nature of the transfer, the Foxes are still battling with their squad size ahead of the new Premier League season. It’s imperative that as the “refresh” touted by Brendan Rodgers begins to happen, that the backdoor at King Power Stadium also continues to revolve.
Owynn Palmer-Atkin, BBC Radio Leicester's Foxes reporter
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall has signed a new bumper long-term contract at Leicester City.
The 23 year old midfielder is rewarded after a brilliant breakthrough season. The deal is until 2027. Ricardo, Fofana and Justin have also signed contract extensions with #lcfc this year.
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers has made no secret of his admiration for Dewsbury-Hall and his development into a first team regular over the past year. The new deal brings his wages in line with senior members of the #lcfc squad.
Dewsbury-Hall made 44 appearances for Leicester last season, including 35 starts. He scored three goals, against Napoli & Randers in Europe and his first in the Premier League against Palace in April. He joined #lcfc when he was eight and has had loan spells at Blackpool & Luton.
Mr Geoff Peters @talksport
The 23 year old midfielder is rewarded after a brilliant breakthrough season. The deal is until 2027. Ricardo, Fofana and Justin have also signed contract extensions with #lcfc this year.
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers has made no secret of his admiration for Dewsbury-Hall and his development into a first team regular over the past year. The new deal brings his wages in line with senior members of the #lcfc squad.
Dewsbury-Hall made 44 appearances for Leicester last season, including 35 starts. He scored three goals, against Napoli & Randers in Europe and his first in the Premier League against Palace in April. He joined #lcfc when he was eight and has had loan spells at Blackpool & Luton.
Mr Geoff Peters @talksport
Create Iconic – The 2022/23 Leicester City Home Shirt By adidas
Leicester City today reveals its 2022/23 home shirt by adidas, coming soon to the Foxes Fanstore and LCFC.com/shop.
The 2022/23 launch is accompanied by the Club’s Create Iconic campaign – a season-long celebration of great Leicester City moments that fixed shirts of past eras into the Club’s history and embedded them into the memory of every Foxes fan.
Every shirt invokes a memory of a player, a goal, a moment. In 2022/23, our men’s and women’s teams will be looking to add to those memories, creating moments that will define this shirt’s place in Foxes folklore for years to come.
Combining features such as the prominent white collar and neck trim – synonymous with the Jimmy Bloomfield sides of the 1970s – and the popular ‘dynamic fox’ made famous by the likes of Gary Lineker and Alan Smith in the 1980s, the 2022/23 home shirt carries iconic elements of shirts of past eras.
Shot on location at King Power Stadium featuring players from our Men’s, Women’s and senior Academy teams, the shirt features adidas AEROREADY technology, containing a minimum of 60% recycled content. The shirt will be priced £63 for adults and £45 for juniors.
LCFC.COM
Leicester City today reveals its 2022/23 home shirt by adidas, coming soon to the Foxes Fanstore and LCFC.com/shop.
The 2022/23 launch is accompanied by the Club’s Create Iconic campaign – a season-long celebration of great Leicester City moments that fixed shirts of past eras into the Club’s history and embedded them into the memory of every Foxes fan.
Every shirt invokes a memory of a player, a goal, a moment. In 2022/23, our men’s and women’s teams will be looking to add to those memories, creating moments that will define this shirt’s place in Foxes folklore for years to come.
Combining features such as the prominent white collar and neck trim – synonymous with the Jimmy Bloomfield sides of the 1970s – and the popular ‘dynamic fox’ made famous by the likes of Gary Lineker and Alan Smith in the 1980s, the 2022/23 home shirt carries iconic elements of shirts of past eras.
Shot on location at King Power Stadium featuring players from our Men’s, Women’s and senior Academy teams, the shirt features adidas AEROREADY technology, containing a minimum of 60% recycled content. The shirt will be priced £63 for adults and £45 for juniors.
LCFC.COM
Arsenal interest in Youri Tielemans cools to make one-year Leicester extension more likely
Arsenal have long been admirers of Youri Tielemans, who has one year left on his Leicester deal; However, that interest has waned having agreed a £34m deal for Porto midfielder Fabio Vieira; Tielemans staying at Leicester remains on the table
Arsenal have cooled their interest in Youri Tielemans making it more likely the Belgium midfielder will sign a one-year contract extension at Leicester.
Arsenal have long been admirers of Tielemans, who has just one year left on his existing Leicester deal, but with the Gunners having agreed a £34m deal for Porto midfielder Fabio Vieira on Friday, that interest has waned.
It is thought Arsenal will only sign one central midfielder in this window, and their preference is Vieira.
Leicester do not want to lose Tielemans for free next summer and have always had the confidence that, if no deal suited both the club and the midfielder, then he would commit to another year at the King Power Stadium.
Sky Sports News has been told that the communication and understanding between Leicester and Tielemans has remained constant and cordial, with a great deal of mutual respect.
There is still a long way to go in the summer window, but Tielemans staying at Leicester remains on the table.
SkySports
Arsenal have long been admirers of Youri Tielemans, who has one year left on his Leicester deal; However, that interest has waned having agreed a £34m deal for Porto midfielder Fabio Vieira; Tielemans staying at Leicester remains on the table
Arsenal have cooled their interest in Youri Tielemans making it more likely the Belgium midfielder will sign a one-year contract extension at Leicester.
Arsenal have long been admirers of Tielemans, who has just one year left on his existing Leicester deal, but with the Gunners having agreed a £34m deal for Porto midfielder Fabio Vieira on Friday, that interest has waned.
It is thought Arsenal will only sign one central midfielder in this window, and their preference is Vieira.
Leicester do not want to lose Tielemans for free next summer and have always had the confidence that, if no deal suited both the club and the midfielder, then he would commit to another year at the King Power Stadium.
Sky Sports News has been told that the communication and understanding between Leicester and Tielemans has remained constant and cordial, with a great deal of mutual respect.
There is still a long way to go in the summer window, but Tielemans staying at Leicester remains on the table.
SkySports
Leicester City start the 2022/23 Premier League season at the King Power Stadium against Brentford on August 6.
Brendan Rodgers' side then travel to the Emirates to face Arsenal on August 13 before hosting Southampton on August 20.
Leicester host East Midlands rivals Nottingham Forest on October 1 and their final game before the season pauses for the winter World Cup will be at the London Stadium against West Ham on November 12. They will then return to action on Boxing Day at home to Newcastle.
They face a trip to Liverpool on New Year's Eve and make the journey to the City Ground to face Nottingham Forest on January 14. Leicester finish the season at home to West Ham on May 28. All fixtures subject to change.
Key dates for the 2022/23 season
The Premier League season will begin on the weekend of August 6/7 - one week earlier than the 2021/22 campaign started.
However, the Premier League will take a break in the middle of the season to accommodate the first ever winter World Cup. The league's final round before the break will be on the weekend of November 12/13 before resuming on Boxing Day with the World Cup final taking place on December 18.
The Premier League's final day will be Sunday May 28.
Meanwhile, the Carabao Cup final will be held on Sunday February 26 and the FA Cup final on Saturday June 3.
The Europa League final will be played on May 31 in Budapest, the Europa Conference League final will be on June 7 in Prague and the Champions League final is scheduled for June 10 in Istanbul.
Brendan Rodgers' side then travel to the Emirates to face Arsenal on August 13 before hosting Southampton on August 20.
Leicester host East Midlands rivals Nottingham Forest on October 1 and their final game before the season pauses for the winter World Cup will be at the London Stadium against West Ham on November 12. They will then return to action on Boxing Day at home to Newcastle.
They face a trip to Liverpool on New Year's Eve and make the journey to the City Ground to face Nottingham Forest on January 14. Leicester finish the season at home to West Ham on May 28. All fixtures subject to change.
Key dates for the 2022/23 season
The Premier League season will begin on the weekend of August 6/7 - one week earlier than the 2021/22 campaign started.
However, the Premier League will take a break in the middle of the season to accommodate the first ever winter World Cup. The league's final round before the break will be on the weekend of November 12/13 before resuming on Boxing Day with the World Cup final taking place on December 18.
The Premier League's final day will be Sunday May 28.
Meanwhile, the Carabao Cup final will be held on Sunday February 26 and the FA Cup final on Saturday June 3.
The Europa League final will be played on May 31 in Budapest, the Europa Conference League final will be on June 7 in Prague and the Champions League final is scheduled for June 10 in Istanbul.
|
August
6: Brentford (h) 13: Arsenal (a) 20: Southampton (h) 27: Chelsea (a) 30: Man Utd (h) |
September
3: Brighton (a) 10: Aston Villa (h) 17: Tottenham (a) |
October
1: Nottingham Forest (h) 8: Bournemouth (a) 15: Crystal Palace (h) 18: Leeds United n(h) 22: Wolves (a) 29: Man City (h) |
November
5: Everton (a) 12: West Ham (a) |
December
26: Newcastle (h) 31: Liverpool (a) |
|
January
2: Fulham (h) 14: Nottingham Forest (a) 21: Brighton (h) |
February
4: Aston Villa (a) 11: Tottenham (h) 18: Man Utd (a) 25: Arsenal (h) |
March
4: Southampton (a) 11: Chelsea (h) 18: Brentford (a) |
April
1: Crystal Palace (a) 8: Bournemouth (h) 15: Man City (a) 22: Wolves (h) 25: Leeds (a) 29: Everton (h)here to edit. |
May
6: Fulham (a) 13: Liverpool (h) 20: Newcastle (a) 28: West Ham (h) |
Arsenal have Youri Tielemans transfer alternative amid Leicester City
Arsenal are reportedly eyeing an alternative to Youri Tielemans in the summer transfer window as speculation continues around the player’s future.
The Leicester City midfielder is out of contract at the end of next season, despite talks over a new deal at the King Power Stadium going on for over a year. It therefore means that City could lose the player for nothing at the end of next season.
There has been much speculation over Tielemans’ future over the last six months with the Belgian the most heavily linked with Arsenal. Reports suggest that Mikel Arteta is eyeing a move for around £25 million, having added Tielemans to his transfer wishlist.
Amid growing talk around Arsenal’s interest in the player, it has been reported by the Athletic that the Gunners are yet to make a bid to City for the midfielder. Tielemans has been away on international duty with Belgium for the last two weeks where he has played alongside City teammates Timothy Castagne and Dennis Praet.
A separate report from Portugal now suggests that Arsenal could have moved onto other targets. Record claim that the Gunners are eyeing a possible move for Porto midfielder Vitinha, although they do have competition from Manchester United for the 22-year-old.
It is said that the Portuguese international would cost in the region of €40 million (£34.5m), a price which could be close to what City may demand for Tielemans.
When questioned on his future following Belgium’s Nations’ League clash against Wales, Tielemans remained tight-lipped. “No, not at all and I don’t think this is the moment and place to discuss that,” he said. “I have expressed myself on that before and there is nothing new.”
The midfielder was named man of the match for both the 1-1 draw against Wales and also in Belgium’s 1-0 Nations League win over Poland on Tuesday evening.
Leicester Mercury
Arsenal are reportedly eyeing an alternative to Youri Tielemans in the summer transfer window as speculation continues around the player’s future.
The Leicester City midfielder is out of contract at the end of next season, despite talks over a new deal at the King Power Stadium going on for over a year. It therefore means that City could lose the player for nothing at the end of next season.
There has been much speculation over Tielemans’ future over the last six months with the Belgian the most heavily linked with Arsenal. Reports suggest that Mikel Arteta is eyeing a move for around £25 million, having added Tielemans to his transfer wishlist.
Amid growing talk around Arsenal’s interest in the player, it has been reported by the Athletic that the Gunners are yet to make a bid to City for the midfielder. Tielemans has been away on international duty with Belgium for the last two weeks where he has played alongside City teammates Timothy Castagne and Dennis Praet.
A separate report from Portugal now suggests that Arsenal could have moved onto other targets. Record claim that the Gunners are eyeing a possible move for Porto midfielder Vitinha, although they do have competition from Manchester United for the 22-year-old.
It is said that the Portuguese international would cost in the region of €40 million (£34.5m), a price which could be close to what City may demand for Tielemans.
When questioned on his future following Belgium’s Nations’ League clash against Wales, Tielemans remained tight-lipped. “No, not at all and I don’t think this is the moment and place to discuss that,” he said. “I have expressed myself on that before and there is nothing new.”
The midfielder was named man of the match for both the 1-1 draw against Wales and also in Belgium’s 1-0 Nations League win over Poland on Tuesday evening.
Leicester Mercury
LEICESTER CITY 4-1 SOUTHAMPTON
Maddison marvels against unholy Saints
Leicester City registered their first back-to-back H2H home victories over Southampton since April 2016, defeating the 'Saints' 4-1 at the King Power Stadium.
Hoping to continue their promising end to an overall disappointing domestic campaign, the hosts should have been ahead after seven minutes when the marauding-forward Timothy Castagne somehow failed to hit the target with the goal at his mercy.
Looking to improve on the fourth-worst away record in the Premier League this season, after only three victories this season, Southampton failed to produce a significant attacking intent on Kasper Schmeichel’s goal. Leicester were then left bemused in the 23rd minute when referee Jonathan Moss nonchalantly waived the ‘Foxes’ appeal for a penalty away. Despite an unparalleled level of attacking dominance over their underwhelming visitors, Leicester were forced to begrudgingly trudge down the tunnel for the HT interval without an arguably deserved lead.
However, the hosts' superiority paid dividends within the opening four minutes of the second half, when recently-crowned Leicester Player of the Season James Maddison fortuitously swept home the rebound after Alex McCarthy had failed to hold on to Jamie Vardy’s one-on-one effort. Southampton should have been level approaching the final 20 minutes, but substitute Che Adams could only direct his header over the crossbar. Vardy doubled Leicester’s lead shortly before the 75th mark, mercilessly leaving Lyanco on the King Power turf, before clinically slotting home.
Southampton set up an intriguing final 10 minutes when top scorer James Ward-Prowse fired home from the penalty spot. However, less than two minutes later, Leicester ruthlessly restored their two-goal advantage when substitute Ayoze Pérez ghosted into the penalty area to fire home at the back-post.
Pérez’s second goal in the final minute of added time capped off a convincing Leicester win that extends their deep-rooted unbeaten bragging rights against Southampton to five matches across all competitions. Ultimately the ‘Foxes’ will consider their Premier League season a disappointing one, after finishing outside the European qualification positions for the first time in three years. Meanwhile, the 'Saints' have not been so graceful this season, as Ralph Hasenhüttl's side finish the campaign without a victory in their final six matches.
Flashscore Man of the Match: James Maddison (Leicester City)
flashscore.co.uk
Maddison marvels against unholy Saints
Leicester City registered their first back-to-back H2H home victories over Southampton since April 2016, defeating the 'Saints' 4-1 at the King Power Stadium.
Hoping to continue their promising end to an overall disappointing domestic campaign, the hosts should have been ahead after seven minutes when the marauding-forward Timothy Castagne somehow failed to hit the target with the goal at his mercy.
Looking to improve on the fourth-worst away record in the Premier League this season, after only three victories this season, Southampton failed to produce a significant attacking intent on Kasper Schmeichel’s goal. Leicester were then left bemused in the 23rd minute when referee Jonathan Moss nonchalantly waived the ‘Foxes’ appeal for a penalty away. Despite an unparalleled level of attacking dominance over their underwhelming visitors, Leicester were forced to begrudgingly trudge down the tunnel for the HT interval without an arguably deserved lead.
However, the hosts' superiority paid dividends within the opening four minutes of the second half, when recently-crowned Leicester Player of the Season James Maddison fortuitously swept home the rebound after Alex McCarthy had failed to hold on to Jamie Vardy’s one-on-one effort. Southampton should have been level approaching the final 20 minutes, but substitute Che Adams could only direct his header over the crossbar. Vardy doubled Leicester’s lead shortly before the 75th mark, mercilessly leaving Lyanco on the King Power turf, before clinically slotting home.
Southampton set up an intriguing final 10 minutes when top scorer James Ward-Prowse fired home from the penalty spot. However, less than two minutes later, Leicester ruthlessly restored their two-goal advantage when substitute Ayoze Pérez ghosted into the penalty area to fire home at the back-post.
Pérez’s second goal in the final minute of added time capped off a convincing Leicester win that extends their deep-rooted unbeaten bragging rights against Southampton to five matches across all competitions. Ultimately the ‘Foxes’ will consider their Premier League season a disappointing one, after finishing outside the European qualification positions for the first time in three years. Meanwhile, the 'Saints' have not been so graceful this season, as Ralph Hasenhüttl's side finish the campaign without a victory in their final six matches.
Flashscore Man of the Match: James Maddison (Leicester City)
flashscore.co.uk
CHELSEA 1-1 LEICESTER CITY
Wasteful Blues held in Stamford stalemate
Chelsea and Leicester City shared the spoils in an entertaining 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge, as the ‘Foxes’ missed out on the chance to record three successive Premier League (PL) wins for the first time since January 2021.
Coming into the contest on the back of a gut-wrenching defeat to Liverpool in the FA Cup final, Chelsea looked to dominante the early exchanges with plenty of possession inside the Leicester half. However, it was the ‘Foxes’ who took the lead in the sixth minute, as James Maddison collected a rebound from Timothy Castagne, before curling an accurate strike into the bottom corner beyond Édouard Mendy.
Undeterred by the setback, Chelsea went in search for an immediate response, and came within inches of finding one as Trevoh Chalobah saw a long-range effort superbly tipped over the bar by Kasper Schmeichel. The hosts continued to apply pressure on the Leicester goal before HT, and found a deserved leveller when Reece James picked out fellow wing-back Marcos Alonso at the back post for the Spaniard to confidently volley home.
Having failed to pick up a single point from all four of their visits to teams in the PL top-five this season, Leicester were happy to edge a lacklustre start to the second half, with both sides looking short of ideas in the final third. The ‘Blues’ improved on the hour mark, as Romelu Lukaku directed a good headed chance wide and Christian Pulisic fluffed his lines when unmarked eight yards out.
With time ticking into the final 15 minutes, Chelsea continued to create good chances in their pursuit of a late winner, but Schmeichel held firm in the Leicester goal to deny James and Chalobah. The Stamford Bridge faithful roared their team on in the closing stages as the pressure mounted on the visitors, however the Leicester rearguard dealt with everything to secure an impressive, hard-earned share of the spoils.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Kasper Schmeichel (Leicester City)
flashscore.co.uk
Wasteful Blues held in Stamford stalemate
Chelsea and Leicester City shared the spoils in an entertaining 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge, as the ‘Foxes’ missed out on the chance to record three successive Premier League (PL) wins for the first time since January 2021.
Coming into the contest on the back of a gut-wrenching defeat to Liverpool in the FA Cup final, Chelsea looked to dominante the early exchanges with plenty of possession inside the Leicester half. However, it was the ‘Foxes’ who took the lead in the sixth minute, as James Maddison collected a rebound from Timothy Castagne, before curling an accurate strike into the bottom corner beyond Édouard Mendy.
Undeterred by the setback, Chelsea went in search for an immediate response, and came within inches of finding one as Trevoh Chalobah saw a long-range effort superbly tipped over the bar by Kasper Schmeichel. The hosts continued to apply pressure on the Leicester goal before HT, and found a deserved leveller when Reece James picked out fellow wing-back Marcos Alonso at the back post for the Spaniard to confidently volley home.
Having failed to pick up a single point from all four of their visits to teams in the PL top-five this season, Leicester were happy to edge a lacklustre start to the second half, with both sides looking short of ideas in the final third. The ‘Blues’ improved on the hour mark, as Romelu Lukaku directed a good headed chance wide and Christian Pulisic fluffed his lines when unmarked eight yards out.
With time ticking into the final 15 minutes, Chelsea continued to create good chances in their pursuit of a late winner, but Schmeichel held firm in the Leicester goal to deny James and Chalobah. The Stamford Bridge faithful roared their team on in the closing stages as the pressure mounted on the visitors, however the Leicester rearguard dealt with everything to secure an impressive, hard-earned share of the spoils.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Kasper Schmeichel (Leicester City)
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WATFORD 1-5 LEICESTER CITY
Fabulous Foxes turn on the style to sting Hornets
Leicester City came from behind to secure a dominant 5-1 victory over Watford at Vicarage Road. Remarkably, the ‘Foxes’ now have three H2H victories over their opponents this season, scoring at least four in each.
Roy Hodgson’s men failed to register a single shot on target in their goalless draw with Everton in midweek, but needed just six minutes to open the scoring on this occasion. A corner from the right wreaked havoc inside the Leicester area, allowing João Pedro to flash a shot that would inadvertently be turned into his own goal by Timothy Castagne. Astoundingly, the ‘Foxes’ have now conceded 20 goals from set-pieces in the Premier League this season, more than a third of their total for the season.
Adam Masina was next to profit from Leicester’s amateur defending, but his close-range effort was denied by the bar. That miss would prove very costly, as the visitors equalised against the run of play. In their efforts to defend the same ball, Masina and Craig Cathcart collided and cleared a path for Youri TIelemans to give James Maddison a tap-in. Moments later, the quick-fire turnaround was completed thanks to another calamitous defensive error from the ‘Hornets’. Maddison’s floated cross into the box enticed Ben Foster to rush out and meet it, but he failed spectacularly, diving past the ball and allowing Jamie Vardy to head home into an empty net.
Brendan Rodgers’ men doubled their lead within 23 seconds of the restart, when Marc Albrighton, who replaced Nampalys Mendy at the interval, provided a glorious cross which found Harvey Barnes in acres of space to drive past Foster. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall threatened to make it four, but his curling effort drifted narrowly wide. More disastrous defending allowed Leicester to add to their lead though, with Vardy seizing on Barnes’ lofted pass to slide the ball beyond Foster. Eight goals in his last seven meetings with Watford for the former England man, and a fourth of the league season against the ‘Hornets’.
Barnes added a fifth in the 86th minute, beautifully finding the far corner after being slotted through by Maddison. A comfortable victory ensured Leicester remained in the top half of the table, although anything worse than a ninth-placed finish would be their worst return since their unsuccessful title defence in 2016/17. Meanwhile, a 12th defeat from the last 13 on home soil meant there was little to shout about for incoming manager Rob Edwards watching on from the stands.
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Fabulous Foxes turn on the style to sting Hornets
Leicester City came from behind to secure a dominant 5-1 victory over Watford at Vicarage Road. Remarkably, the ‘Foxes’ now have three H2H victories over their opponents this season, scoring at least four in each.
Roy Hodgson’s men failed to register a single shot on target in their goalless draw with Everton in midweek, but needed just six minutes to open the scoring on this occasion. A corner from the right wreaked havoc inside the Leicester area, allowing João Pedro to flash a shot that would inadvertently be turned into his own goal by Timothy Castagne. Astoundingly, the ‘Foxes’ have now conceded 20 goals from set-pieces in the Premier League this season, more than a third of their total for the season.
Adam Masina was next to profit from Leicester’s amateur defending, but his close-range effort was denied by the bar. That miss would prove very costly, as the visitors equalised against the run of play. In their efforts to defend the same ball, Masina and Craig Cathcart collided and cleared a path for Youri TIelemans to give James Maddison a tap-in. Moments later, the quick-fire turnaround was completed thanks to another calamitous defensive error from the ‘Hornets’. Maddison’s floated cross into the box enticed Ben Foster to rush out and meet it, but he failed spectacularly, diving past the ball and allowing Jamie Vardy to head home into an empty net.
Brendan Rodgers’ men doubled their lead within 23 seconds of the restart, when Marc Albrighton, who replaced Nampalys Mendy at the interval, provided a glorious cross which found Harvey Barnes in acres of space to drive past Foster. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall threatened to make it four, but his curling effort drifted narrowly wide. More disastrous defending allowed Leicester to add to their lead though, with Vardy seizing on Barnes’ lofted pass to slide the ball beyond Foster. Eight goals in his last seven meetings with Watford for the former England man, and a fourth of the league season against the ‘Hornets’.
Barnes added a fifth in the 86th minute, beautifully finding the far corner after being slotted through by Maddison. A comfortable victory ensured Leicester remained in the top half of the table, although anything worse than a ninth-placed finish would be their worst return since their unsuccessful title defence in 2016/17. Meanwhile, a 12th defeat from the last 13 on home soil meant there was little to shout about for incoming manager Rob Edwards watching on from the stands.
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LEICESTER CITY 3-0 NORWICH CITY
Vardy double sparks a Madd Leicester party
A classic Jamie Vardy display spared Bredan Rodgers blushes, as Leicester secured an emphatic 3-0 victory over Norwich City and ensured Rodgers avoided the feat of becoming the first ‘Foxes’ manager to lose three-successive Premier League games since Claude Puel in 2019.
This game was almost a dead-rubber for both these sides, with a top-half finish about as good as it’s going to get for Leicester, whilst Norwich’s relegation fate is already sealed.
It was unsurprisingly the ‘Foxes’ who settled quicker and Rodgers' side spurned two great chances to take the lead. Angus Gunn denied James Maddison from distance, before also denying Vardy from the rebound. Leicester pressure was incessant at times and this time it was Ademola Lookman who forced Gunn into yet another smart stop to ensure the scores remained level at the break.
The second half started in much similar fashion, with Leicester in the ascendancy, and this time the ‘Foxes’ made Norwich pay.
Vardy announced his return from injury with a ferocious strike which deflected off Grant Hanley and looped over a desperate Gunn in the Norwich goal.
Like London buses, a second soon came around for Vardy as he latched onto Harvey Barnes’ deft through-ball to slam home his second of the evening and his 150th league goal. You couldn’t help but feel a little for Norwich, who had defended so valiantly throughout the evening, but their endeavours had been undone by a moment of pure fortune.
Leicester weren’t finished at two though, and added a third through Maddison, who slammed home from the edge of the box after Gunn flapped at Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s cross.
Victory for Leicester lifts them into the top-half of the table at the expense of Crystal Palace and with a trip to another relegated side in Watford at the weekend, Leicester may fancy their chances of stretching that gap.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Jamie Vardy (Leicester City)
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Vardy double sparks a Madd Leicester party
A classic Jamie Vardy display spared Bredan Rodgers blushes, as Leicester secured an emphatic 3-0 victory over Norwich City and ensured Rodgers avoided the feat of becoming the first ‘Foxes’ manager to lose three-successive Premier League games since Claude Puel in 2019.
This game was almost a dead-rubber for both these sides, with a top-half finish about as good as it’s going to get for Leicester, whilst Norwich’s relegation fate is already sealed.
It was unsurprisingly the ‘Foxes’ who settled quicker and Rodgers' side spurned two great chances to take the lead. Angus Gunn denied James Maddison from distance, before also denying Vardy from the rebound. Leicester pressure was incessant at times and this time it was Ademola Lookman who forced Gunn into yet another smart stop to ensure the scores remained level at the break.
The second half started in much similar fashion, with Leicester in the ascendancy, and this time the ‘Foxes’ made Norwich pay.
Vardy announced his return from injury with a ferocious strike which deflected off Grant Hanley and looped over a desperate Gunn in the Norwich goal.
Like London buses, a second soon came around for Vardy as he latched onto Harvey Barnes’ deft through-ball to slam home his second of the evening and his 150th league goal. You couldn’t help but feel a little for Norwich, who had defended so valiantly throughout the evening, but their endeavours had been undone by a moment of pure fortune.
Leicester weren’t finished at two though, and added a third through Maddison, who slammed home from the edge of the box after Gunn flapped at Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s cross.
Victory for Leicester lifts them into the top-half of the table at the expense of Crystal Palace and with a trip to another relegated side in Watford at the weekend, Leicester may fancy their chances of stretching that gap.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Jamie Vardy (Leicester City)
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LEICESTER CITY 1-2 EVERTON
Embarrassing Foxes performance against a team that had only won once away from home all season
Jordan Pickford’s heroics helped Everton earn a vital three points in their Premier League (PL) relegation battle as they beat Leicester City at the King Power Stadium.
The England international made a string of stunning second-half saves as Frank Lampard’s men moved out of the relegation zone following first-half goals from Vitaliy Mykolenko and Mason Holgate.
A frantic start saw a terrific Yerry Mina block prevent Patson Daka from opening the scoring for the ‘Foxes’, before the visitors netted with their first attack. Wing-back Mykolenko fired a stunning volley into the far bottom corner from 20 yards, scoring his first goal of the season. Abdoulaye Doucouré then came close to doubling the lead minutes later, forcing Kasper Schmeichel into a desperate save.
Everton were left ruing that missed opportunity, as Leicester went straight down the other end and levelled as Daka profited from a calamitous mix-up in the ‘Blues’ defence and coolly slotted home. Not dismayed, the visitors were back in front before the break through Holgate, who nodded home a rebound from close range after Richarlison, left unmarked from a corner, had his header saved by Schmeichel.
The second half continued at a similar thunderous pace, although the end-to-end football produced fewer chances. Ex-Leicester man Demarai Gray had one, lashing wildly over the bar, while Pickford dived full stretch to claw Nampalys Mendy’s brilliant curling effort around the post at the other end.
The England international became ever more important as the final whistle approached, making a pair of terrific saves down to his left to deny Harvey Barnes.
Barnes wasted a third glorious chance late on, heading wide from close range, as Leicester made it five PL games without a win, whereas Everton ended a run of eight successive away defeats and moved out of the relegation zone after Leeds’ loss at Arsenal.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Jordan Pickford (Everton)
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Embarrassing Foxes performance against a team that had only won once away from home all season
Jordan Pickford’s heroics helped Everton earn a vital three points in their Premier League (PL) relegation battle as they beat Leicester City at the King Power Stadium.
The England international made a string of stunning second-half saves as Frank Lampard’s men moved out of the relegation zone following first-half goals from Vitaliy Mykolenko and Mason Holgate.
A frantic start saw a terrific Yerry Mina block prevent Patson Daka from opening the scoring for the ‘Foxes’, before the visitors netted with their first attack. Wing-back Mykolenko fired a stunning volley into the far bottom corner from 20 yards, scoring his first goal of the season. Abdoulaye Doucouré then came close to doubling the lead minutes later, forcing Kasper Schmeichel into a desperate save.
Everton were left ruing that missed opportunity, as Leicester went straight down the other end and levelled as Daka profited from a calamitous mix-up in the ‘Blues’ defence and coolly slotted home. Not dismayed, the visitors were back in front before the break through Holgate, who nodded home a rebound from close range after Richarlison, left unmarked from a corner, had his header saved by Schmeichel.
The second half continued at a similar thunderous pace, although the end-to-end football produced fewer chances. Ex-Leicester man Demarai Gray had one, lashing wildly over the bar, while Pickford dived full stretch to claw Nampalys Mendy’s brilliant curling effort around the post at the other end.
The England international became ever more important as the final whistle approached, making a pair of terrific saves down to his left to deny Harvey Barnes.
Barnes wasted a third glorious chance late on, heading wide from close range, as Leicester made it five PL games without a win, whereas Everton ended a run of eight successive away defeats and moved out of the relegation zone after Leeds’ loss at Arsenal.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Jordan Pickford (Everton)
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Leicester City missed out on a place in the Europa Conference League final after losing 1-0 at Roma.
Tammy Abraham's powerful header for the home side was the difference as Leicester struggled to make an impact at the Stadio Olimpico.
The England striker's goal was enough to prevent the Foxes reaching a first European final after the first leg finished 1-1 at the King Power Stadium.
It will be the Italian side's first European final since 1991, where they will face Feyenoord.
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers said after Sunday's Premier League 3-1 defeat to Tottenham that his side needed to work on their defending of corners - so the last thing he would want to see his side do was concede four of them in the opening 10 minutes.
One of those corners gave Abraham opportunity to leap higher than anyone else and put a bullet header past Kasper Schmeichel from a sublime Lorenzo Pellegrini delivery, whose set-pieces were a threat throughout.
Leicester were passive in the first half and did not manage a shot on target as Jamie Vardy looked isolated up front, with Rodgers seeing fit to introduce a strike partner, Kelechi Iheanacho, at half-time.
The Foxes looked brighter in the second period but still failed to create any clear-cut opportunities as Roma were happy to run down the clock.
The only shots of note came towards the final moments of the game as the Leicester players became desperate, shooting from all distances and angles.
James Maddison's weak effort from 20 yards out was straight at Rui Patricio, and Iheanacho's attempt from distance was also picked up with ease by the Portuguese goalkeeper.
Roma boss Jose Mourinho will now aim to put a fifth European title to his name when his side come up against Dutch side Feyenoord, who beat Marseille 3-2 over two legs in their semi-final, in the final on 25 May in Albania.
Despite Rodgers' admission that he did not know what the Europa Conference League was earlier in the season, Leicester's run in the competition has provided a welcome distraction in an otherwise underwhelming season, where they sit 11th in the Premier League and are without a win in their last four games.
But as their chance of reaching a first European final is over, and the likelihood of securing any form of European football next season seems slim, this campaign feels a far cry from last season when they won the FA Cup and finished fifth in the league.
Roma would have been happy to come away from Leicester with the scores level and the second leg was a better tactical showing from Mourinho against his former coaching protege Rodgers.
Mourinho is now the first manager to reach the final of a major European competition with four different clubs.
Leicester's next three league games come against the Premier League's bottom three in Everton, Watford and Norwich so Rodgers will hope his side can salvage a bright finish from a flat season.
BBC
Tammy Abraham's powerful header for the home side was the difference as Leicester struggled to make an impact at the Stadio Olimpico.
The England striker's goal was enough to prevent the Foxes reaching a first European final after the first leg finished 1-1 at the King Power Stadium.
It will be the Italian side's first European final since 1991, where they will face Feyenoord.
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers said after Sunday's Premier League 3-1 defeat to Tottenham that his side needed to work on their defending of corners - so the last thing he would want to see his side do was concede four of them in the opening 10 minutes.
One of those corners gave Abraham opportunity to leap higher than anyone else and put a bullet header past Kasper Schmeichel from a sublime Lorenzo Pellegrini delivery, whose set-pieces were a threat throughout.
Leicester were passive in the first half and did not manage a shot on target as Jamie Vardy looked isolated up front, with Rodgers seeing fit to introduce a strike partner, Kelechi Iheanacho, at half-time.
The Foxes looked brighter in the second period but still failed to create any clear-cut opportunities as Roma were happy to run down the clock.
The only shots of note came towards the final moments of the game as the Leicester players became desperate, shooting from all distances and angles.
James Maddison's weak effort from 20 yards out was straight at Rui Patricio, and Iheanacho's attempt from distance was also picked up with ease by the Portuguese goalkeeper.
Roma boss Jose Mourinho will now aim to put a fifth European title to his name when his side come up against Dutch side Feyenoord, who beat Marseille 3-2 over two legs in their semi-final, in the final on 25 May in Albania.
Despite Rodgers' admission that he did not know what the Europa Conference League was earlier in the season, Leicester's run in the competition has provided a welcome distraction in an otherwise underwhelming season, where they sit 11th in the Premier League and are without a win in their last four games.
But as their chance of reaching a first European final is over, and the likelihood of securing any form of European football next season seems slim, this campaign feels a far cry from last season when they won the FA Cup and finished fifth in the league.
Roma would have been happy to come away from Leicester with the scores level and the second leg was a better tactical showing from Mourinho against his former coaching protege Rodgers.
Mourinho is now the first manager to reach the final of a major European competition with four different clubs.
Leicester's next three league games come against the Premier League's bottom three in Everton, Watford and Norwich so Rodgers will hope his side can salvage a bright finish from a flat season.
BBC
Tottenham 3-1 Leicester City
Spurs back in Euro hunt after sniffing out Foxes
Harry Kane made it 17 goals in 14 Premier League games against Leicester City as Tottenham Hotspur revived their UEFA Champions League ambitions with a comfortable 3-1 victory, taking them back into fourth place.
With Leicester having one eye on their return Europa Conference League semi-final leg against Roma next Thursday it was the perfect opportunity for Tottenham to get their top four hunt back on track after failing to win their last two Premier League games. After making eight changes Brendan Rogers side took a while to get to grips with the game, allowing Tottenham to get off to a fast paced start. However, it was Patson Daka who had the first big chance of the game, getting on the end of Boubakary Soumaré’s cross and striking the post after 14 minutes.
After surviving a nervy five minutes where Leicester spurned some good chances, the hosts turned to their ever reliable duo to take the lead. Harry Kane did brilliantly to get on the end of Son Heung-min’s corner and head the ball into the bottom corner for 1-0. The remainder of the first half could have been won by either side with Kane and Kelechi Iheanacho missing great chances, but somehow the scoreline was left 1-0 at HT.
After a lacklustre start to the second half Antonio Conte decided to introduce Dejan Kulusevski into the fray and within minutes he repaid his managers faith by setting up Son, who showed brilliant composure to slot the ball home for 2-0 just after the hour mark. Son then confirmed the victory for Tottenham with a beauty ten minutes from time. The South Korean picked up the ball on the edge of the area before sumptuously curled the ball into the top corner giving Kasper Schmeichel absolutely no chance.
Leicester got a consolation goal in stoppage time thanks to Iheanacho who fired a powerful strike in off the post from outside the area to see the game finish 3-1. The much needed victory means ‘Spurs’ now sit one point ahead of Arsenal in fourth having played one game more, meanwhile the ‘Foxes’ remain in 11th, now firmly focused on their UEFA Europa Conference League campaign.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Son Heung-min (Tottenham Hotspur)
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Spurs back in Euro hunt after sniffing out Foxes
Harry Kane made it 17 goals in 14 Premier League games against Leicester City as Tottenham Hotspur revived their UEFA Champions League ambitions with a comfortable 3-1 victory, taking them back into fourth place.
With Leicester having one eye on their return Europa Conference League semi-final leg against Roma next Thursday it was the perfect opportunity for Tottenham to get their top four hunt back on track after failing to win their last two Premier League games. After making eight changes Brendan Rogers side took a while to get to grips with the game, allowing Tottenham to get off to a fast paced start. However, it was Patson Daka who had the first big chance of the game, getting on the end of Boubakary Soumaré’s cross and striking the post after 14 minutes.
After surviving a nervy five minutes where Leicester spurned some good chances, the hosts turned to their ever reliable duo to take the lead. Harry Kane did brilliantly to get on the end of Son Heung-min’s corner and head the ball into the bottom corner for 1-0. The remainder of the first half could have been won by either side with Kane and Kelechi Iheanacho missing great chances, but somehow the scoreline was left 1-0 at HT.
After a lacklustre start to the second half Antonio Conte decided to introduce Dejan Kulusevski into the fray and within minutes he repaid his managers faith by setting up Son, who showed brilliant composure to slot the ball home for 2-0 just after the hour mark. Son then confirmed the victory for Tottenham with a beauty ten minutes from time. The South Korean picked up the ball on the edge of the area before sumptuously curled the ball into the top corner giving Kasper Schmeichel absolutely no chance.
Leicester got a consolation goal in stoppage time thanks to Iheanacho who fired a powerful strike in off the post from outside the area to see the game finish 3-1. The much needed victory means ‘Spurs’ now sit one point ahead of Arsenal in fourth having played one game more, meanwhile the ‘Foxes’ remain in 11th, now firmly focused on their UEFA Europa Conference League campaign.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Son Heung-min (Tottenham Hotspur)
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Leicester City 1-1 AS Roma
The King Power Stadium was treated to a thrilling first-ever European semi-final as Leicester City earned a hard-fought draw in the first leg, knowing very well that they have all the chances in the world to upset Jose Mourinho’s Roma from winning their first-ever UEFA title in history. With the 1-1 draw, the ‘Giallorossi’ have now not tasted victory in England since 2001 – a streak of 14 winless matches.
An onslaught of relentless attacks got things rolling for the hosts, as they went painfully close to opening the scoring within five minutes from Timothy Castagne’s diving header that skimmed past the right post. However, a quickfire counterattack on the other end poised Nicola Zalewski to sublimely feed Lorenzo Pellegrini’s powerful finish from the left flank and put Roma in the driving seat just ten minutes later.
Despite having scored a 12th away goal in the Europa Conference League, the Italians couldn’t help but face a skulk of hungry ‘Foxes’, who held the ball with authority, denying the visitors a single chance to force keeper Kasper Schmeichel into a save. Seeking a seventh straight unbeaten European game at home this season, the Leicester faithful continued rallying their team in the hopes of an equaliser that never arrived as the HT whistle approached.
A host of substitutions by Brendan Rodgers after the hour mark changed the face of the game as Leicester finally equalised from their 11th attempt on goal, thanks to Ademola Lookman forcing Gianluca Mancini into tapping home an own-goal after some impressive team play by the home outfit.
The Special One was then forced to change his tactical outlook, but that made little difference as Leicester substitute Kelechi Iheanacho almost handed the hosts their second from a terrific edge-of-the-box shot that went wide of the left post. Minutes later, Schmeichel was called into action for the first time in the match from Sérgio Oliveira’s effort that was headed into the top corner, before the Danish shotstopper stood strong to keep scores level.
The ‘Giallorossi’s suppressed attacking display saw them fail to avoid a third straight winless match, a result they will hope does no harm going into the second leg next week. Leicester on the other hand, will muster inspiration from their performance and count their chances of going all the way to the finals.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Roger Ibañez (AS Roma)
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The King Power Stadium was treated to a thrilling first-ever European semi-final as Leicester City earned a hard-fought draw in the first leg, knowing very well that they have all the chances in the world to upset Jose Mourinho’s Roma from winning their first-ever UEFA title in history. With the 1-1 draw, the ‘Giallorossi’ have now not tasted victory in England since 2001 – a streak of 14 winless matches.
An onslaught of relentless attacks got things rolling for the hosts, as they went painfully close to opening the scoring within five minutes from Timothy Castagne’s diving header that skimmed past the right post. However, a quickfire counterattack on the other end poised Nicola Zalewski to sublimely feed Lorenzo Pellegrini’s powerful finish from the left flank and put Roma in the driving seat just ten minutes later.
Despite having scored a 12th away goal in the Europa Conference League, the Italians couldn’t help but face a skulk of hungry ‘Foxes’, who held the ball with authority, denying the visitors a single chance to force keeper Kasper Schmeichel into a save. Seeking a seventh straight unbeaten European game at home this season, the Leicester faithful continued rallying their team in the hopes of an equaliser that never arrived as the HT whistle approached.
A host of substitutions by Brendan Rodgers after the hour mark changed the face of the game as Leicester finally equalised from their 11th attempt on goal, thanks to Ademola Lookman forcing Gianluca Mancini into tapping home an own-goal after some impressive team play by the home outfit.
The Special One was then forced to change his tactical outlook, but that made little difference as Leicester substitute Kelechi Iheanacho almost handed the hosts their second from a terrific edge-of-the-box shot that went wide of the left post. Minutes later, Schmeichel was called into action for the first time in the match from Sérgio Oliveira’s effort that was headed into the top corner, before the Danish shotstopper stood strong to keep scores level.
The ‘Giallorossi’s suppressed attacking display saw them fail to avoid a third straight winless match, a result they will hope does no harm going into the second leg next week. Leicester on the other hand, will muster inspiration from their performance and count their chances of going all the way to the finals.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Roger Ibañez (AS Roma)
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Leicester City 0-0 Aston Villa
Chances were few and far between in a 0-0 Midlands derby stalemate between Leicester and Aston Villa, as the visitors picked up just their first away draw of the season.
Despite having the opportunity to condemn the ‘Foxes’ to back-to-back home league losses in this fixture for the first time since April 1981, following last season’s win at the King Power, Villa had a mountainous task on their hands considering their stuttering form.
That form showed in their performance early on through loose passes and nervous approach play. But apart from a teasing free-kick whipped by James Maddison on the cusp of HT, Leicester also underwhelmed and failed to create any clear-cut opportunities, giving Villa plenty to hang onto heading into the second half.
Performances were improved after the break from the ‘Villans’, who upped the ante and pinned Leicester back in their own half. Ollie Watkins had success when driving at defenders with the ball at his feet, while Tyrone Mings felt his side deserved a penalty after 55 minutes when his low shot was seemingly blocked by Wesley Fofana’s arm after a corner.
Leicester came back into the game approaching the hour mark, but still lacked any thrust or pace when transitioning, while Villa had now found a better defensive structure. Maddison struggled to assert himself, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was unable to run beyond defenders and Patson Daka couldn’t find the gaps required to receive a killer pass.
Villa became more content with a stalemate as the game grew on, stifling Jamie Vardy’s return from injury off the bench to ensure the game finished goalless. Though perhaps Villa are relieved, as the draw snaps a run of four defeats on the bounce, while Leicester must go again with a mammoth clash against Roma awaiting them next week.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Tyrone Mings (Aston Villa)
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Chances were few and far between in a 0-0 Midlands derby stalemate between Leicester and Aston Villa, as the visitors picked up just their first away draw of the season.
Despite having the opportunity to condemn the ‘Foxes’ to back-to-back home league losses in this fixture for the first time since April 1981, following last season’s win at the King Power, Villa had a mountainous task on their hands considering their stuttering form.
That form showed in their performance early on through loose passes and nervous approach play. But apart from a teasing free-kick whipped by James Maddison on the cusp of HT, Leicester also underwhelmed and failed to create any clear-cut opportunities, giving Villa plenty to hang onto heading into the second half.
Performances were improved after the break from the ‘Villans’, who upped the ante and pinned Leicester back in their own half. Ollie Watkins had success when driving at defenders with the ball at his feet, while Tyrone Mings felt his side deserved a penalty after 55 minutes when his low shot was seemingly blocked by Wesley Fofana’s arm after a corner.
Leicester came back into the game approaching the hour mark, but still lacked any thrust or pace when transitioning, while Villa had now found a better defensive structure. Maddison struggled to assert himself, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was unable to run beyond defenders and Patson Daka couldn’t find the gaps required to receive a killer pass.
Villa became more content with a stalemate as the game grew on, stifling Jamie Vardy’s return from injury off the bench to ensure the game finished goalless. Though perhaps Villa are relieved, as the draw snaps a run of four defeats on the bounce, while Leicester must go again with a mammoth clash against Roma awaiting them next week.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Tyrone Mings (Aston Villa)
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Everton 1-1 Leicester
Richarlison’s 93rd-minute equaliser saw Everton rescue a point against Leicester City to go four points clear of the relegation zone, and extend Leicester City’s winless Premier League away run to four games.
Looking to go six points clear of the dropzone, and secure consecutive PL wins for the first time since September, Everton got off to a nightmare start against Leicester City, when Harvey Barnes was left with the simple task of tapping home with five minutes on the clock, having picked up the loose ball from Kelechi Iheanacho’s deflected effort. The ‘Foxes’ continued to pile on the pressure after finding the opening goal, and soon carved open another chance, only for James Maddison to find Jordan Pickford with his side footed effort from just inside the area.
After riding the wave of Leicester pressure, however, Everton should have hit back through Richarlison, who somehow missed the target with his effort inside the six-yard box, having received Anthony Gordan’s pinpoint cross. As HT approached, too, it was the ‘Toffees’ who were applying the pressure, with Richarlison’s header over the crossbar adding to the chances wasted by the hosts.
Everton picked up where they left off in the second period knowing completing their search for parity was vital. Considering Leicester’s PL away form of six losses in their last eight coming into the trip to Goodison, Everton would have had every belief of grabbing a point and this was epitomised by Frank Lampard’s changes, which included the introduction of striker Salomón Rondón. As the half progressed, Kasper Schmeichel remained relatively untested and an equaliser looked less and less likely. In fact, out of both of the goalkeepers, it was Jordan Pickford who was the busier, with his save to deny Maddison’s goalbound effort the pick of the half.
The game should have been put to bed by Maddison with just over ten minutes remaining. The midfielder could not convert substitute Patson Daka’s cutback, however, with his effort dragging wide. The midfielder was soon punished too, with Richarlison grabbing a potentially season-defining goal late on, sending the Everton faithful into joyous, yet possibly relieved celebrations.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Richarlison (Everton)
Flashscore.co.uk
Richarlison’s 93rd-minute equaliser saw Everton rescue a point against Leicester City to go four points clear of the relegation zone, and extend Leicester City’s winless Premier League away run to four games.
Looking to go six points clear of the dropzone, and secure consecutive PL wins for the first time since September, Everton got off to a nightmare start against Leicester City, when Harvey Barnes was left with the simple task of tapping home with five minutes on the clock, having picked up the loose ball from Kelechi Iheanacho’s deflected effort. The ‘Foxes’ continued to pile on the pressure after finding the opening goal, and soon carved open another chance, only for James Maddison to find Jordan Pickford with his side footed effort from just inside the area.
After riding the wave of Leicester pressure, however, Everton should have hit back through Richarlison, who somehow missed the target with his effort inside the six-yard box, having received Anthony Gordan’s pinpoint cross. As HT approached, too, it was the ‘Toffees’ who were applying the pressure, with Richarlison’s header over the crossbar adding to the chances wasted by the hosts.
Everton picked up where they left off in the second period knowing completing their search for parity was vital. Considering Leicester’s PL away form of six losses in their last eight coming into the trip to Goodison, Everton would have had every belief of grabbing a point and this was epitomised by Frank Lampard’s changes, which included the introduction of striker Salomón Rondón. As the half progressed, Kasper Schmeichel remained relatively untested and an equaliser looked less and less likely. In fact, out of both of the goalkeepers, it was Jordan Pickford who was the busier, with his save to deny Maddison’s goalbound effort the pick of the half.
The game should have been put to bed by Maddison with just over ten minutes remaining. The midfielder could not convert substitute Patson Daka’s cutback, however, with his effort dragging wide. The midfielder was soon punished too, with Richarlison grabbing a potentially season-defining goal late on, sending the Everton faithful into joyous, yet possibly relieved celebrations.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Richarlison (Everton)
Flashscore.co.uk
Newcastle United 2-1 Leicester
Bruno Guimaraes' last-gasp header all but secures Premier League survival
Bruno Guimaraes' 95th-minute header seals a 2-1 win for Newcastle over Leicester; Guimaraes had earlier cancelled out Ademola Lookman's opener; watch free highlights on the Sky Sports app and website shortly after full-time.
Bruno Guimaraes' last-gasp header clinched a 2-1 win for Newcastle over Leicester to all but secure the Magpies' Premier League survival in dramatic circumstances at St James' Park.
Guimaraes had cancelled out Ademola Lookman's opener when he bundled home from a corner in the first half, and the Brazilian then grabbed the winner in the fifth minute of stoppage time when he headed home substitute Joe Willock's deflected cross to spark wild celebrations inside the stadium.
The late goal was a bitter blow to the Foxes, who fielded a heavily-rotated side following their Europa Conference League exertions on Thursday and looked more likely to get the breakthrough in the second period, but it was a huge moment for the hosts.
Newcastle, already 10 points clear of the drop zone ahead of kick-off, stretched the gap to 12 points thanks to Guimaraes' header as 18th-placed Burnley drew 1-1 with West Ham in Sunday's other Premier League game.
They are not yet mathematically safe yet, but thanks to the two-goal heroics of their £40m January signing from Lyon, Eddie Howe and his players are able to look ahead to another season of top-flight football and perhaps a brighter future too.
Sky Sports
Bruno Guimaraes' last-gasp header all but secures Premier League survival
Bruno Guimaraes' 95th-minute header seals a 2-1 win for Newcastle over Leicester; Guimaraes had earlier cancelled out Ademola Lookman's opener; watch free highlights on the Sky Sports app and website shortly after full-time.
Bruno Guimaraes' last-gasp header clinched a 2-1 win for Newcastle over Leicester to all but secure the Magpies' Premier League survival in dramatic circumstances at St James' Park.
Guimaraes had cancelled out Ademola Lookman's opener when he bundled home from a corner in the first half, and the Brazilian then grabbed the winner in the fifth minute of stoppage time when he headed home substitute Joe Willock's deflected cross to spark wild celebrations inside the stadium.
The late goal was a bitter blow to the Foxes, who fielded a heavily-rotated side following their Europa Conference League exertions on Thursday and looked more likely to get the breakthrough in the second period, but it was a huge moment for the hosts.
Newcastle, already 10 points clear of the drop zone ahead of kick-off, stretched the gap to 12 points thanks to Guimaraes' header as 18th-placed Burnley drew 1-1 with West Ham in Sunday's other Premier League game.
They are not yet mathematically safe yet, but thanks to the two-goal heroics of their £40m January signing from Lyon, Eddie Howe and his players are able to look ahead to another season of top-flight football and perhaps a brighter future too.
Sky Sports
PSV Eindhoven 1-2 Leicester City
The Philips Stadion witnessed home side PSV Eindhoven meltdown in remarkable fashion after conceding two quickfire Leicester City goals at the death. The result ends the ‘Rood-witten’s’ 15-match unbeaten streak and sends the ‘Foxes’ jumping into their first-ever European semi-final.
With the away goal rule abolished, Leicester put in an energised second leg showing in the initial minutes, knowing they could not rely on a score draw. However, it was the home side who threatened the visitor’s goal first by virtue of Mario Götze’s stupendous first-time volley directed towards the top corner, before Mauro Júnior blasted a shot that was headed into the bottom right – both of which were excellently thwarted away by Kasper Schmeichel.
Although the ‘Foxes’ reacted well, they couldn’t keep ‘Rood-witten’ from scoring in the 27th minute. The move saw Götze tee up Eran Zahavi on the right flank, who in turn struck a wonderful low drive to score the tie’s first goal in over 100 minutes of play. Then, a wicked deflection off James Maddison’s shot in the PSV box saw the ball heading into an empty net, but Jordan Teze was on hand to heroically scissor-kick it away from the goal line to keep his side in the lead going into the second period.
Brendan Rodgers’ outfit encountered a rather stern home defence after the break, but it was the Dutch side’s attack that proved relentless time and again, looking to turn the slim lead into a comfortable one. Joey Veerman saw his deflected long-range effort skim the left post on its way out, before goalscorer Zahavi sent a header flying over Schmeichel’s crossbar as the clock struck the hour mark. Leicester forward Patson Daka then produced an amazing solo run, only to see his end product zoom past Swiss goalkeeper Yvon Mvogo’s left post.
The final quarter-hour saw Roger Schmidt’s ‘Rood-witten’ spurn yet another chance to double their lead via Ibrahim Sangaré’s missed effort high over the crossbar. The Dutch side were punished for their missed chances in the 77th minute, thanks to Leicetser’s most threatening forward of the evening, Maddison, who thumped the ball from close-range past a helpless Mvogo to level scores. With PSV visibly shaken, Leicester took full advantage of their opponent’s shortcomings and thumped in the winner two minutes from FT, as Ricardo Pereira struck a rebound from close range to win it for the ‘Foxes’.
The hosts succumbed to a fifth loss in their last 18 home encounters against English opposition, as they failed to extend their unbeaten streak at the Philips Stadion to eight games by virtue of a dilapidated second half display. In stark contrast, Leicester’s second-half comeback steers them towards their first-ever European semi-final in the club’s history.
Man of the Match: James Maddison (Leicester City)
The Philips Stadion witnessed home side PSV Eindhoven meltdown in remarkable fashion after conceding two quickfire Leicester City goals at the death. The result ends the ‘Rood-witten’s’ 15-match unbeaten streak and sends the ‘Foxes’ jumping into their first-ever European semi-final.
With the away goal rule abolished, Leicester put in an energised second leg showing in the initial minutes, knowing they could not rely on a score draw. However, it was the home side who threatened the visitor’s goal first by virtue of Mario Götze’s stupendous first-time volley directed towards the top corner, before Mauro Júnior blasted a shot that was headed into the bottom right – both of which were excellently thwarted away by Kasper Schmeichel.
Although the ‘Foxes’ reacted well, they couldn’t keep ‘Rood-witten’ from scoring in the 27th minute. The move saw Götze tee up Eran Zahavi on the right flank, who in turn struck a wonderful low drive to score the tie’s first goal in over 100 minutes of play. Then, a wicked deflection off James Maddison’s shot in the PSV box saw the ball heading into an empty net, but Jordan Teze was on hand to heroically scissor-kick it away from the goal line to keep his side in the lead going into the second period.
Brendan Rodgers’ outfit encountered a rather stern home defence after the break, but it was the Dutch side’s attack that proved relentless time and again, looking to turn the slim lead into a comfortable one. Joey Veerman saw his deflected long-range effort skim the left post on its way out, before goalscorer Zahavi sent a header flying over Schmeichel’s crossbar as the clock struck the hour mark. Leicester forward Patson Daka then produced an amazing solo run, only to see his end product zoom past Swiss goalkeeper Yvon Mvogo’s left post.
The final quarter-hour saw Roger Schmidt’s ‘Rood-witten’ spurn yet another chance to double their lead via Ibrahim Sangaré’s missed effort high over the crossbar. The Dutch side were punished for their missed chances in the 77th minute, thanks to Leicetser’s most threatening forward of the evening, Maddison, who thumped the ball from close-range past a helpless Mvogo to level scores. With PSV visibly shaken, Leicester took full advantage of their opponent’s shortcomings and thumped in the winner two minutes from FT, as Ricardo Pereira struck a rebound from close range to win it for the ‘Foxes’.
The hosts succumbed to a fifth loss in their last 18 home encounters against English opposition, as they failed to extend their unbeaten streak at the Philips Stadion to eight games by virtue of a dilapidated second half display. In stark contrast, Leicester’s second-half comeback steers them towards their first-ever European semi-final in the club’s history.
Man of the Match: James Maddison (Leicester City)
Leicester City 2-1 Crystal Palace
Leicester's Dewsbury Hall shines as The Foxes leapfrog Palace as they swap positions in the league
Leicester continued their fine run of recent form as homegrown talent Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall played a starring role in a hard-earned win over Crystal Palace.
The Foxes started slowly at the King Power Stadium but Dewsbury-Hall carved Palace open with a superb ball for Ademola Lookman to fire home, before whipping his own finish high into the net six minutes later.
The 23-year-old's moments of quality proved telling in a fixture both sides could have been forgiven for looking past given their mid-table status and with key cup fixtures in the coming week.
Palace - who missed early chances through Wilfried Zaha, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Joachim Andersen - refused to give in after the break and Youri Tielemans' foul on Jordan Ayew in the penalty area offered them a route back into the match.
Zaha saw his penalty saved and when VAR pointed to encroachment in the area by home defender Caglar Soyuncu, his retaken penalty was also palmed away by Kasper Schmeichel, only for the Ivory Coast international to head in the rebound.
It prompted a spirited 10 minutes from Palace - who went close through a Jeffrey Schlupp flick - but their seven-game unbeaten run ends. Leicester now have four wins and a draw from their past six league games - form that lifts them to ninth in the table, one place above the beaten visitors.
A closely matched game - possession was 50-50, while Leicester managed just one more shot than their visitors - was arguably to be expected given two sides enjoying very similar fortunes.
Leicester did not pick up a league win for all of January and February but have found late-season form. Palace won just once over the same period and have themselves found momentum deep in the campaign.
Throw in the fact that Leicester face a key Europa Conference League second leg against PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday while Palace have one eye on next Sunday's FA Cup semi-final at Chelsea and it would be easy to see why either side might have opted to preserve energy.
And Leicester's seven changes from their 0-0 first-leg draw with PSV appeared to cause a lack of cohesion that Palace might have exploited.
But the visitors were unable to take half-chances and Dewsbury-Hall made them pay by reversing a defence-splitting pass into Lookman's path for the opener before patiently creating shooting space of his own for a rifled second.
The 23-year-old was certainly not coasting. He ran further than anyone else on the pitch - clocking 11.3km - and hit a higher top speed than anyone in his sprints.
"It means so much," he said of his goal. "It's a dream come true to score in the Premier League. I have dreamt it since I was a little boy. I have come close but I am so happy today."
Palace, who have not ended a top-flight campaign higher than 10th since finishing third 1990-91, will rue a period late in the first half when they slackened off and let the Foxes in. Dewsbury-Hall's assist saw them opened too easily, while his goal owed much to a missed clearance by Marc Guehi in the build-up.
When they did rally, Zaha was integral to the improvement and his form will offer confidence for next week's semi-final.
After scoring, he fought admirably to conjure an equaliser, notably when teeing up Schlupp who saw his flick blocked by a sea of Leicester bodies.
BBC Sport
Leicester's Dewsbury Hall shines as The Foxes leapfrog Palace as they swap positions in the league
Leicester continued their fine run of recent form as homegrown talent Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall played a starring role in a hard-earned win over Crystal Palace.
The Foxes started slowly at the King Power Stadium but Dewsbury-Hall carved Palace open with a superb ball for Ademola Lookman to fire home, before whipping his own finish high into the net six minutes later.
The 23-year-old's moments of quality proved telling in a fixture both sides could have been forgiven for looking past given their mid-table status and with key cup fixtures in the coming week.
Palace - who missed early chances through Wilfried Zaha, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Joachim Andersen - refused to give in after the break and Youri Tielemans' foul on Jordan Ayew in the penalty area offered them a route back into the match.
Zaha saw his penalty saved and when VAR pointed to encroachment in the area by home defender Caglar Soyuncu, his retaken penalty was also palmed away by Kasper Schmeichel, only for the Ivory Coast international to head in the rebound.
It prompted a spirited 10 minutes from Palace - who went close through a Jeffrey Schlupp flick - but their seven-game unbeaten run ends. Leicester now have four wins and a draw from their past six league games - form that lifts them to ninth in the table, one place above the beaten visitors.
A closely matched game - possession was 50-50, while Leicester managed just one more shot than their visitors - was arguably to be expected given two sides enjoying very similar fortunes.
Leicester did not pick up a league win for all of January and February but have found late-season form. Palace won just once over the same period and have themselves found momentum deep in the campaign.
Throw in the fact that Leicester face a key Europa Conference League second leg against PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday while Palace have one eye on next Sunday's FA Cup semi-final at Chelsea and it would be easy to see why either side might have opted to preserve energy.
And Leicester's seven changes from their 0-0 first-leg draw with PSV appeared to cause a lack of cohesion that Palace might have exploited.
But the visitors were unable to take half-chances and Dewsbury-Hall made them pay by reversing a defence-splitting pass into Lookman's path for the opener before patiently creating shooting space of his own for a rifled second.
The 23-year-old was certainly not coasting. He ran further than anyone else on the pitch - clocking 11.3km - and hit a higher top speed than anyone in his sprints.
"It means so much," he said of his goal. "It's a dream come true to score in the Premier League. I have dreamt it since I was a little boy. I have come close but I am so happy today."
Palace, who have not ended a top-flight campaign higher than 10th since finishing third 1990-91, will rue a period late in the first half when they slackened off and let the Foxes in. Dewsbury-Hall's assist saw them opened too easily, while his goal owed much to a missed clearance by Marc Guehi in the build-up.
When they did rally, Zaha was integral to the improvement and his form will offer confidence for next week's semi-final.
After scoring, he fought admirably to conjure an equaliser, notably when teeing up Schlupp who saw his flick blocked by a sea of Leicester bodies.
BBC Sport
Leicester 0-0 PSV Eindhoven
Conference League 1/4 Final
A cut-throat finisher was all Leicester City were lacking in the first leg of the UEFA Europa Conference League (UECL) quarter-final. Kelechi Iheanacho spurned a number of chances on the night, leaving the tie wide open prior to the return leg in Eindhoven.
The King Power Stadium played host to a European quarter-final for the first time since 2017, and while PSV don’t hold quite the same pedigree as Atlético Madrid, the 1988 European champions have qualified for continental competition in 48 straight seasons. Forgotten 2014 World Cup final winner Mario Götze gave the ‘Foxes’ an early scare as he latched onto a Joey Veerman flighted through ball in behind the backline, forcing Kasper Schmeichel into action.
Nigerian forward Kelechi Iheanacho, who has only four goals in all competitions in Jamie Vardy’s absence then went agonisingly close, chipping fractionally wide of Yvon Mvogo’s left-hand post. The best chance of the half for the home side fell two minutes before the break, when Iheanacho slipped Harvey Barnes in down the left and he struck the ball wonderfully, only for it to ricochet off the crossbar.
VAR will only be used in the final of the UECL, perhaps to the ‘Boeran’s’ dismay as Cody Gakpo was felled inside the box after cutting inside Ricardo Pereira right after the interval. Despite protestations from Gakpo and the travelling away fans, referee Ivan Kružliak remained unmoved. Iheanacho again found himself with the ball at his feet after a well-timed Wesley Fofana interception, but shot wide once more as his effort skidded past the post.
Leicester now head to the Philips Stadion with the tie on a knife edge, made even harder given the fact PSV are unbeaten at home in the last six in all competitions. The ‘Boeran’ will be hoping next week's reverse fixture will not be the last in a crazy 18-game European journey across three competitions so far.
flashscore.co.uk
Conference League 1/4 Final
A cut-throat finisher was all Leicester City were lacking in the first leg of the UEFA Europa Conference League (UECL) quarter-final. Kelechi Iheanacho spurned a number of chances on the night, leaving the tie wide open prior to the return leg in Eindhoven.
The King Power Stadium played host to a European quarter-final for the first time since 2017, and while PSV don’t hold quite the same pedigree as Atlético Madrid, the 1988 European champions have qualified for continental competition in 48 straight seasons. Forgotten 2014 World Cup final winner Mario Götze gave the ‘Foxes’ an early scare as he latched onto a Joey Veerman flighted through ball in behind the backline, forcing Kasper Schmeichel into action.
Nigerian forward Kelechi Iheanacho, who has only four goals in all competitions in Jamie Vardy’s absence then went agonisingly close, chipping fractionally wide of Yvon Mvogo’s left-hand post. The best chance of the half for the home side fell two minutes before the break, when Iheanacho slipped Harvey Barnes in down the left and he struck the ball wonderfully, only for it to ricochet off the crossbar.
VAR will only be used in the final of the UECL, perhaps to the ‘Boeran’s’ dismay as Cody Gakpo was felled inside the box after cutting inside Ricardo Pereira right after the interval. Despite protestations from Gakpo and the travelling away fans, referee Ivan Kružliak remained unmoved. Iheanacho again found himself with the ball at his feet after a well-timed Wesley Fofana interception, but shot wide once more as his effort skidded past the post.
Leicester now head to the Philips Stadion with the tie on a knife edge, made even harder given the fact PSV are unbeaten at home in the last six in all competitions. The ‘Boeran’ will be hoping next week's reverse fixture will not be the last in a crazy 18-game European journey across three competitions so far.
flashscore.co.uk
Khun Vichai Statue Unveiled In Emotional Filbert Way Occasion
Leicester City’s football family came together on Monday for the inauguration of the Khun Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha statue at King Power Stadium – an eternal tribute to the most influential figure in the Football Club’s 138-year history.
On what would have been Khun Vichai’s 64th birthday, current Leicester City Chairman Khun Aiyawatt ‘Top’ Srivaddhanaprabha and his family were joined by distinguished guests to celebrate Khun Vichai’s Leicester legacy.
Dignitaries including Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Mike Kapur; Vice Lord-Lieutenant, Colonel Murray Colville; Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand, Mr Pisanu Suvanajata; Lord Mayor of Leicester, Councillor Deepak Bajaj; City Mayor, Sir Peter Soulsby; and High Sheriff, Mehmooda Duke were among those in attendance, along with local faith leaders including Bishop of Leicester, The Right Revd Martyn Snow; and Dean of Leicester, The Very Revd David Monteith.
Appropriately connecting the city of Leicester with Khun Vichai’s homeland for the occasion, a group of his close friends were also present, at the invitation of the Srivaddhanaprabha family, along with friends from the worlds of polo, horse racing and Belgian club Oud-Heverlee Leuven.
The current Leicester City first team squad, led to a maiden FA Cup success in 2021 by Brendan Rodgers, were joined by members of the 2016 Premier League title-winning team and former managers Nigel Pearson, Claudio Ranieri and Craig Shakespeare. Leicester City representation was completed by Directors, senior and long-serving Club staff, former Chairmen and iconic former players.
Khun Vichai passed away alongside staff members Kaveporn Punpare and Nusara Suknamai, and pilots Eric Swaffer and Izabela Lechowicz, in a tragic helicopter accident at the home of Leicester City in October 2018.
Representatives of Leicestershire Police, Leicestershire Fire & Rescue and East Midlands Ambulance Service, who played such pivotal roles in the community response to the accident, were also present on an emotional occasion.
Chief Executive Susan Whelan – a close friend and colleague of Khun Vichai – opened proceedings, before Khun Top unveiled the statue of his father in front of a crowd of family and friends.
Susan said: "Khun Vichai loved this city. He greatly appreciated the affection shown by the people of Leicester and recognised how this community believed in his vision.
"Today, his contribution to the Club and to the city is made eternal. For generations to come, people will stand in this place and tell stories of The Possible Man. They will speak of his leadership and ambition, but also of his generosity and kindness. However this site changes, in all the moments we will experience together, his presence will be permanent."
Commissioned by the Srivaddhanaprabha family, the Khun Vichai statue is a permanent embodiment of his magnificent legacy in a place which brought him so much personal joy.
The statue inauguration ceremony was led by Buddhist monks, who travelled to Leicester from Thailand at the request of the Srivaddhanaprabha family. Such ceremonies have become customary at King Power Stadium during the family’s ownership of the Club, particularly at the start of a new season and for the inauguration of landmark developments, including LCFC Training Ground in Seagrave and the Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Memorial Garden.
The ceremony commenced with the lighting of candles and incense, before the reading of Sanskrit prayers by the Buddhist monks. A string stretching the length of the ceremony room, representing the Buddha, was then blessed from a golden bowl with candle wax to create holy water.
Afterwards, the monks bestowed five precepts – constituting a basic code of ethics in Buddhism – upon the head of the ceremony. Buddhist chanting then began, marking the start of the Matrix funeral chant.
Guests were later invited to offer yellow robes to the monks, in accordance with Bangsukul ceremony traditions, and to transfer love and goodwill to Khun Vichai. Bangsukul chanting continued, before the ceremony concluded with the pouring of water to dedicate merit to all.
With his unwavering dedication and ceaseless passion for the Club, the story Khun Vichai inspired at King Power Stadium delighted millions around the world.
Establishing Leicester City among the game’s elite was only part of Khun Vichai’s gift to Leicester, whose communities came to love and admire his frequent displays of generosity.
He invested in their football club, delivering experiences that brought the people of the city together in pride and celebration. Through his countless acts of compassion and philanthropy, he sought to make their city a better place.
Such values will remain at the heart of the Club’s work for generations to come, forming a key part of Khun Vichai’s legacy, under the guidance of his son and current Chairman Khun Top.
In future, as the people of this city continue to come together at the Khun Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha statue at King Power Stadium, they will be greeted by a tribute to a truly great man – an everlasting reminder of what he gave to the Club and to Leicester.
Following the inauguration ceremony on Monday, the Khun Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha statue at King Power Stadium will be accessible to supporters from Tuesday 5 April.
LCFC.COM
Leicester City’s football family came together on Monday for the inauguration of the Khun Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha statue at King Power Stadium – an eternal tribute to the most influential figure in the Football Club’s 138-year history.
On what would have been Khun Vichai’s 64th birthday, current Leicester City Chairman Khun Aiyawatt ‘Top’ Srivaddhanaprabha and his family were joined by distinguished guests to celebrate Khun Vichai’s Leicester legacy.
Dignitaries including Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Mike Kapur; Vice Lord-Lieutenant, Colonel Murray Colville; Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand, Mr Pisanu Suvanajata; Lord Mayor of Leicester, Councillor Deepak Bajaj; City Mayor, Sir Peter Soulsby; and High Sheriff, Mehmooda Duke were among those in attendance, along with local faith leaders including Bishop of Leicester, The Right Revd Martyn Snow; and Dean of Leicester, The Very Revd David Monteith.
Appropriately connecting the city of Leicester with Khun Vichai’s homeland for the occasion, a group of his close friends were also present, at the invitation of the Srivaddhanaprabha family, along with friends from the worlds of polo, horse racing and Belgian club Oud-Heverlee Leuven.
The current Leicester City first team squad, led to a maiden FA Cup success in 2021 by Brendan Rodgers, were joined by members of the 2016 Premier League title-winning team and former managers Nigel Pearson, Claudio Ranieri and Craig Shakespeare. Leicester City representation was completed by Directors, senior and long-serving Club staff, former Chairmen and iconic former players.
Khun Vichai passed away alongside staff members Kaveporn Punpare and Nusara Suknamai, and pilots Eric Swaffer and Izabela Lechowicz, in a tragic helicopter accident at the home of Leicester City in October 2018.
Representatives of Leicestershire Police, Leicestershire Fire & Rescue and East Midlands Ambulance Service, who played such pivotal roles in the community response to the accident, were also present on an emotional occasion.
Chief Executive Susan Whelan – a close friend and colleague of Khun Vichai – opened proceedings, before Khun Top unveiled the statue of his father in front of a crowd of family and friends.
Susan said: "Khun Vichai loved this city. He greatly appreciated the affection shown by the people of Leicester and recognised how this community believed in his vision.
"Today, his contribution to the Club and to the city is made eternal. For generations to come, people will stand in this place and tell stories of The Possible Man. They will speak of his leadership and ambition, but also of his generosity and kindness. However this site changes, in all the moments we will experience together, his presence will be permanent."
Commissioned by the Srivaddhanaprabha family, the Khun Vichai statue is a permanent embodiment of his magnificent legacy in a place which brought him so much personal joy.
The statue inauguration ceremony was led by Buddhist monks, who travelled to Leicester from Thailand at the request of the Srivaddhanaprabha family. Such ceremonies have become customary at King Power Stadium during the family’s ownership of the Club, particularly at the start of a new season and for the inauguration of landmark developments, including LCFC Training Ground in Seagrave and the Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Memorial Garden.
The ceremony commenced with the lighting of candles and incense, before the reading of Sanskrit prayers by the Buddhist monks. A string stretching the length of the ceremony room, representing the Buddha, was then blessed from a golden bowl with candle wax to create holy water.
Afterwards, the monks bestowed five precepts – constituting a basic code of ethics in Buddhism – upon the head of the ceremony. Buddhist chanting then began, marking the start of the Matrix funeral chant.
Guests were later invited to offer yellow robes to the monks, in accordance with Bangsukul ceremony traditions, and to transfer love and goodwill to Khun Vichai. Bangsukul chanting continued, before the ceremony concluded with the pouring of water to dedicate merit to all.
With his unwavering dedication and ceaseless passion for the Club, the story Khun Vichai inspired at King Power Stadium delighted millions around the world.
Establishing Leicester City among the game’s elite was only part of Khun Vichai’s gift to Leicester, whose communities came to love and admire his frequent displays of generosity.
He invested in their football club, delivering experiences that brought the people of the city together in pride and celebration. Through his countless acts of compassion and philanthropy, he sought to make their city a better place.
Such values will remain at the heart of the Club’s work for generations to come, forming a key part of Khun Vichai’s legacy, under the guidance of his son and current Chairman Khun Top.
In future, as the people of this city continue to come together at the Khun Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha statue at King Power Stadium, they will be greeted by a tribute to a truly great man – an everlasting reminder of what he gave to the Club and to Leicester.
Following the inauguration ceremony on Monday, the Khun Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha statue at King Power Stadium will be accessible to supporters from Tuesday 5 April.
LCFC.COM
Manchester United 1-1 Leicester City
Manchester United lost more ground in the battle for a Champions League spot as they were held by Leicester at Old Trafford as Maddison sees winner ruled out by VAR.
The damage could have been even worse for Ralf Rangnick's men as Leicester were denied a potential winner 10 minutes from time when referee Andre Marriner was sent to the screen by the video assistant referee, with Marriner overturning James Maddison's effort for a foul on Raphael Varane in the build-up.
United could count themselves fortunate to get a point.
After a drab opening period, Kelechi Iheanacho scored a superb 63rd-minute opener when he met superb Maddison's left-wing cross with a fine diving header, which sent the ball back into the far corner.
The Foxes' advantage lasted just three minutes, with Brazilian midfielder Fred on hand to convert the rebound after Bruno Fernandes' shot had been pushed into his path by Kasper Schmeichel.
It was a disappointing outcome for the hosts, who are now three points behind fourth-placed Arsenal, having played two games more and with a trip to the Gunners, plus encounters with Liverpool and Chelsea, still to come.
It says everything about the kind of season Marcus Rashford has had that even with the ill Cristiano Ronaldo, Edinson Cavani and Mason Greenwood missing this game completely, the England man was only given a seat on the bench.
Rashford's future has been debated long and hard over the last few weeks.
With a contract that is due to expire next year, although there is an option to extend to 2024, a decision over Rashford will be one of the new manager's first tasks when he takes over.
The theory is a proper break, followed by an intense pre-season and a chance to play regularly in his best position, on the left, would correct many of Rashford's problems.
At the moment though, he just needs to deliver. And, asked to occupy the number nine position when he was introduced for the final 35 minutes, Rashford continued to look ill at ease.
Rangnick provided detailed instructions as Rashford waited to come on and then, together with technical director Darren Fletcher, offered more as the game entered its final 20 minutes.
Fleetingly, it looked like Rashford's world would turn. Deep into stoppage time, he picked the ball up just outside the box and drove at the Leicester defence. But just as space opened up to shoot, an offside Anthony Elanga got in his way and the chance was gone.
BBC Sport
Manchester United lost more ground in the battle for a Champions League spot as they were held by Leicester at Old Trafford as Maddison sees winner ruled out by VAR.
The damage could have been even worse for Ralf Rangnick's men as Leicester were denied a potential winner 10 minutes from time when referee Andre Marriner was sent to the screen by the video assistant referee, with Marriner overturning James Maddison's effort for a foul on Raphael Varane in the build-up.
United could count themselves fortunate to get a point.
After a drab opening period, Kelechi Iheanacho scored a superb 63rd-minute opener when he met superb Maddison's left-wing cross with a fine diving header, which sent the ball back into the far corner.
The Foxes' advantage lasted just three minutes, with Brazilian midfielder Fred on hand to convert the rebound after Bruno Fernandes' shot had been pushed into his path by Kasper Schmeichel.
It was a disappointing outcome for the hosts, who are now three points behind fourth-placed Arsenal, having played two games more and with a trip to the Gunners, plus encounters with Liverpool and Chelsea, still to come.
It says everything about the kind of season Marcus Rashford has had that even with the ill Cristiano Ronaldo, Edinson Cavani and Mason Greenwood missing this game completely, the England man was only given a seat on the bench.
Rashford's future has been debated long and hard over the last few weeks.
With a contract that is due to expire next year, although there is an option to extend to 2024, a decision over Rashford will be one of the new manager's first tasks when he takes over.
The theory is a proper break, followed by an intense pre-season and a chance to play regularly in his best position, on the left, would correct many of Rashford's problems.
At the moment though, he just needs to deliver. And, asked to occupy the number nine position when he was introduced for the final 35 minutes, Rashford continued to look ill at ease.
Rangnick provided detailed instructions as Rashford waited to come on and then, together with technical director Darren Fletcher, offered more as the game entered its final 20 minutes.
Fleetingly, it looked like Rashford's world would turn. Deep into stoppage time, he picked the ball up just outside the box and drove at the Leicester defence. But just as space opened up to shoot, an offside Anthony Elanga got in his way and the chance was gone.
BBC Sport
Leicester City 2-1 Brentford
Timothy Castagne and James Maddison both scored brilliant goals as Leicester beat Brentford to move into the top half of the Premier League.
Castagne, on his first appearance of 2022 following injury, hit a swerving effort into the top corner from outside the box from Harvey Barnes' cutback.
And Maddison curled a fantastic 25-yard free-kick into the other corner after he was fouled. It capped a good week for Leicester, who clinched a Europa Conference League quarter-final spot on Thursday in Rennes.
Brentford pulled one back late on as Bryan Mbeumo found Yoane Wissa, who drove a shot in from 20 yards. The Bees pushed for an unlikely equaliser and Kasper Schmeichel had to save a deflected shot from Premier League debutant Tariqe Fosu.
Leicester have struggled this season with injuries to most of their first-choice defenders - but suddenly they are all returning.
Wesley Fofana made his first appearance of the season on Thursday but was left out here as the Foxes manage his return.
Castagne had been out since 28 December and he was replaced in the second half by Jonny Evans for his first game since 12 December.
It is too late to mount a challenge for the top seven in the Premier League but they have a realistic chance of winning the new Europa Conference League - in which they face PSV in the last eight.
They were deserved winners against Brentford thanks to those Castagne and Maddison goals from outside the box - although they were hanging on a bit at the end.
Ex-Foxes striker Paul Dickov told BBC Radio 5 Live: "Timothy Castagne's goal has to be up there for goal of the season. He looked a little bit rusty for the first 10 minutes but was excellent after that."
Maddison has scored 13 Premier League goals outside the box since his Leicester debut in 2018-19, more than anybody else.
Brendan Rodgers' side had other chances too - with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Maddison forcing saves from David Raya and Kelechi Iheanacho chipping wide after a good run from the halfway line.
Brentford - who were without Christian Eriksen through Covid - were hoping to win three consecutive top-flight matches for the first time in more than 75 years - but they left it too late to fight back.
Ivan Toney, who scored five goals in their two wins over Norwich and Burnley, was starved of service.
Pontus Jansson and Bryan Mbeumo both had headers saved by Schmeichel before Wissa's late breakthrough - but they could not find a leveller.
Thomas Frank's side are not yet safe from relegation, but sitting eight points above the drop zone a few points here and there should be enough.
BBC Sport
Timothy Castagne and James Maddison both scored brilliant goals as Leicester beat Brentford to move into the top half of the Premier League.
Castagne, on his first appearance of 2022 following injury, hit a swerving effort into the top corner from outside the box from Harvey Barnes' cutback.
And Maddison curled a fantastic 25-yard free-kick into the other corner after he was fouled. It capped a good week for Leicester, who clinched a Europa Conference League quarter-final spot on Thursday in Rennes.
Brentford pulled one back late on as Bryan Mbeumo found Yoane Wissa, who drove a shot in from 20 yards. The Bees pushed for an unlikely equaliser and Kasper Schmeichel had to save a deflected shot from Premier League debutant Tariqe Fosu.
Leicester have struggled this season with injuries to most of their first-choice defenders - but suddenly they are all returning.
Wesley Fofana made his first appearance of the season on Thursday but was left out here as the Foxes manage his return.
Castagne had been out since 28 December and he was replaced in the second half by Jonny Evans for his first game since 12 December.
It is too late to mount a challenge for the top seven in the Premier League but they have a realistic chance of winning the new Europa Conference League - in which they face PSV in the last eight.
They were deserved winners against Brentford thanks to those Castagne and Maddison goals from outside the box - although they were hanging on a bit at the end.
Ex-Foxes striker Paul Dickov told BBC Radio 5 Live: "Timothy Castagne's goal has to be up there for goal of the season. He looked a little bit rusty for the first 10 minutes but was excellent after that."
Maddison has scored 13 Premier League goals outside the box since his Leicester debut in 2018-19, more than anybody else.
Brendan Rodgers' side had other chances too - with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Maddison forcing saves from David Raya and Kelechi Iheanacho chipping wide after a good run from the halfway line.
Brentford - who were without Christian Eriksen through Covid - were hoping to win three consecutive top-flight matches for the first time in more than 75 years - but they left it too late to fight back.
Ivan Toney, who scored five goals in their two wins over Norwich and Burnley, was starved of service.
Pontus Jansson and Bryan Mbeumo both had headers saved by Schmeichel before Wissa's late breakthrough - but they could not find a leveller.
Thomas Frank's side are not yet safe from relegation, but sitting eight points above the drop zone a few points here and there should be enough.
BBC Sport
Rennes 2-1 Leicester City (2-3 agg)
Wesley Fofana made a dream return after seven months out injured as his goal helped Leicester City edge past Rennes and move into the Europa Conference League quarter-finals.
Leicester won the first leg 2-0 at the King Power Stadium but their advantage was halved inside eight minutes when Benjamin Bourigeaud finished from Martin Terrier's low cross.
But 21-year-old central defender Fofana, playing for the first time since breaking a leg in a pre-season friendly against Villarreal in August, then glanced in a header from Ademola Lookman's corner.
The Frenchman ran and hugged boss Brendan Rodgers in emotional scenes, although that was not the last of the goals.
Rennes regained the lead on the night through substitute Flavien Tait's low strike into the bottom corner in the 77th minute, with the hosts needing one more goal to force extra-time.
They nearly got it, but Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel made a superb save with his legs to deny Serhou Guirassy in the 85th minute.
The Foxes held on to seal a 3-2 aggregate victory to move into the last eight of a European competition for only the second time in their history, after they lost to Atletico Madrid in the quarter-finals of the Champions League in 2017.
The draw for the next round takes place on Friday in Switzerland.
For Leicester, 12th in the Premier League but well adrift of European qualification and well clear of the relegation zone, this competition provides their main source of excitement for the rest of the campaign.
In the past two years they have been pushing for Champions League qualification and finished fifth in successive campaigns before winning the FA Cup for the first time last season.
That took them into the Europa League but, after only finishing third in their group, they dropped into the third-tier Europa Conference League.
After the home win in the first leg, Rodgers warned his players that the tie was not over and they would have to "suffer a little bit" in the second leg in north-west France.
That was certainly the case in a hectic match at a packed and noisy Roazhon Park with the game played in a superb atmosphere.
Rennes, fourth in Ligue 1, made a bright start, scored early on and put the Foxes under pressure, before Fofana's goal early in the second half looked to have settled the visitors' nerves.
But Tait's strike set up a frantic, thrilling finish with Leicester's defenders throwing their bodies in front of the ball and Baptiste Santamaria shooting wide in the 92nd minute as the Foxes held on.
BBC Sport
Wesley Fofana made a dream return after seven months out injured as his goal helped Leicester City edge past Rennes and move into the Europa Conference League quarter-finals.
Leicester won the first leg 2-0 at the King Power Stadium but their advantage was halved inside eight minutes when Benjamin Bourigeaud finished from Martin Terrier's low cross.
But 21-year-old central defender Fofana, playing for the first time since breaking a leg in a pre-season friendly against Villarreal in August, then glanced in a header from Ademola Lookman's corner.
The Frenchman ran and hugged boss Brendan Rodgers in emotional scenes, although that was not the last of the goals.
Rennes regained the lead on the night through substitute Flavien Tait's low strike into the bottom corner in the 77th minute, with the hosts needing one more goal to force extra-time.
They nearly got it, but Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel made a superb save with his legs to deny Serhou Guirassy in the 85th minute.
The Foxes held on to seal a 3-2 aggregate victory to move into the last eight of a European competition for only the second time in their history, after they lost to Atletico Madrid in the quarter-finals of the Champions League in 2017.
The draw for the next round takes place on Friday in Switzerland.
For Leicester, 12th in the Premier League but well adrift of European qualification and well clear of the relegation zone, this competition provides their main source of excitement for the rest of the campaign.
In the past two years they have been pushing for Champions League qualification and finished fifth in successive campaigns before winning the FA Cup for the first time last season.
That took them into the Europa League but, after only finishing third in their group, they dropped into the third-tier Europa Conference League.
After the home win in the first leg, Rodgers warned his players that the tie was not over and they would have to "suffer a little bit" in the second leg in north-west France.
That was certainly the case in a hectic match at a packed and noisy Roazhon Park with the game played in a superb atmosphere.
Rennes, fourth in Ligue 1, made a bright start, scored early on and put the Foxes under pressure, before Fofana's goal early in the second half looked to have settled the visitors' nerves.
But Tait's strike set up a frantic, thrilling finish with Leicester's defenders throwing their bodies in front of the ball and Baptiste Santamaria shooting wide in the 92nd minute as the Foxes held on.
BBC Sport
Arsenal 2-0 Leicester City
Arsenal maintained their push to secure Champions League football as they beat Leicester City to earn a fifth successive Premier League win.
The deserved victory at Emirates Stadium lifted Arsenal back into fourth place, one point above Manchester United, who beat fellow top-four contenders Tottenham on Saturday.
Thomas Partey headed in unchallenged from Gabriel Martinelli's corner after 11 minutes as the hosts capitalised on their dominant start.
Partey also struck the crossbar as Arsenal pressed for a second, while goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale was twice called upon to deny Harvey Barnes - including a superb reaction save from a header - as the visitors threatened before half-time.
But, after Leicester defender Caglar Soyuncu was penalised for handball following a lengthy video assistant referee review, Alexandre Lacazette fired in a 59th-minute penalty to put the Gunners in control.
Soyuncu received only a yellow card as Partey's still goal-bound header was cleared off the line by the alert Luke Thomas.
However, there was to be no way back for Brendan Rodgers's side, who remain 12th in the table.
Seeking to end a five-year absence from Europe's elite club competition, Arsenal ensured they remain in pole position in the race to qualify with a ninth win in 11 league games.
With three games in hand over fifth-placed United from which to further strengthen their position, Mikel Arteta's men - unlike their immediate rivals - have achieved consistency in both performances and results to emerge as favourites for fourth.
The opening goal was a familiar tale for Leicester, who have now conceded a league-high 15 goals from set-pieces - excluding penalties - after Partey's run to the near post went ignored.
Arsenal had amassed six shots before Leicester, sorely missing injured talisman Jamie Vardy, managed their first attempt after 24 minutes.
But, just as he was in October's reverse fixture, which Arsenal also won 2-0, the inspired Ramsdale was up to the task when the Foxes eventually gained a foothold in the contest.
Martinelli and Bukayo Saka impressed in attack for Arsenal, while Partey was influential in midfield, but it was the slick Martin Odegaard who stood out as he created five big chances for his team-mates in the first half alone.
Lacazette's confidently-despatched spot-kick ultimately moved the game beyond Leicester, after referee Anthony Taylor also took his time to review Soyuncu's subtle handball on the pitch-side monitor.
Rodgers' side must quickly dust themselves down as focus switches to securing a place in the last eight of the Europa Conference League, as they take a 2-0 lead into their second leg against Rennes on Thursday.
For Arsenal, a meeting with title-chasing Liverpool on Wednesday will provide an acid test of their progress since a 4-0 loss at Anfield earlier this season.
BBC Sport
Arsenal maintained their push to secure Champions League football as they beat Leicester City to earn a fifth successive Premier League win.
The deserved victory at Emirates Stadium lifted Arsenal back into fourth place, one point above Manchester United, who beat fellow top-four contenders Tottenham on Saturday.
Thomas Partey headed in unchallenged from Gabriel Martinelli's corner after 11 minutes as the hosts capitalised on their dominant start.
Partey also struck the crossbar as Arsenal pressed for a second, while goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale was twice called upon to deny Harvey Barnes - including a superb reaction save from a header - as the visitors threatened before half-time.
But, after Leicester defender Caglar Soyuncu was penalised for handball following a lengthy video assistant referee review, Alexandre Lacazette fired in a 59th-minute penalty to put the Gunners in control.
Soyuncu received only a yellow card as Partey's still goal-bound header was cleared off the line by the alert Luke Thomas.
However, there was to be no way back for Brendan Rodgers's side, who remain 12th in the table.
Seeking to end a five-year absence from Europe's elite club competition, Arsenal ensured they remain in pole position in the race to qualify with a ninth win in 11 league games.
With three games in hand over fifth-placed United from which to further strengthen their position, Mikel Arteta's men - unlike their immediate rivals - have achieved consistency in both performances and results to emerge as favourites for fourth.
The opening goal was a familiar tale for Leicester, who have now conceded a league-high 15 goals from set-pieces - excluding penalties - after Partey's run to the near post went ignored.
Arsenal had amassed six shots before Leicester, sorely missing injured talisman Jamie Vardy, managed their first attempt after 24 minutes.
But, just as he was in October's reverse fixture, which Arsenal also won 2-0, the inspired Ramsdale was up to the task when the Foxes eventually gained a foothold in the contest.
Martinelli and Bukayo Saka impressed in attack for Arsenal, while Partey was influential in midfield, but it was the slick Martin Odegaard who stood out as he created five big chances for his team-mates in the first half alone.
Lacazette's confidently-despatched spot-kick ultimately moved the game beyond Leicester, after referee Anthony Taylor also took his time to review Soyuncu's subtle handball on the pitch-side monitor.
Rodgers' side must quickly dust themselves down as focus switches to securing a place in the last eight of the Europa Conference League, as they take a 2-0 lead into their second leg against Rennes on Thursday.
For Arsenal, a meeting with title-chasing Liverpool on Wednesday will provide an acid test of their progress since a 4-0 loss at Anfield earlier this season.
BBC Sport
Leicester City 2-0 Rennes FC
Leicester took control of their Europa Conference League last-16 tie with Rennes as Marc Albrighton and Kelechi Iheanacho earned them a 2-0 first-leg win.
A nervy start for Brendan Rodgers' side was blown out of the water when Albrighton smashed home Harvey Barnes' cutback from the edge of the box on the half-hour mark, following Caglar Soyuncu's defence-splitting pass over the Rennes defence.
And while the Foxes were relatively untroubled by their French opponents in their first-leg, Iheanacho's curling effort in stoppage time feels like a big moment in their season - with Rodgers' men picking up a fourth straight victory in all competitions, plus a first European clean sheet of the season. Leicester were without Jamie Vardy for the King Power Stadium leg, with the Foxes talisman looking a doubt for this weekend's Super Sunday clash at Arsenal, with Patson Daka starting in the former England international's place and James Maddison on the bench.
But Daka struggled to get involved in the early exchanges, with Rennes starting the better in the opening 20 minutes. Striker Gaeten Laborde went closest early on as he met Adrien Truffert's cross inside the Leicester penalty area, but could only fire wide of Kasper Schmeichel's post.
Team newsBrendan Rodgers made two changes to the side who beat Leeds at the weekend. Jamie Vardy is injured so Patson Daka replaced him at centre-forward. The other switch was at right-back as James Justin came in for Hamza Choudhury, for the English defender's first European appearance since December 2020.
Leicester's early nerves showed once again as a couple of sloppy moments in possession led to more Rennes chances. First, Martin Terrier saw a shot well-blocked by Daniel Amartey, before winger Benjamin Bourigeaud fired wide from inside the box.
But Leicester took control after the opening quarter of the game. As possession and pressure grew, Soyuncu played a glorious pass over the right-hand side of the Rennes backline towards Barnes. An excellent takedown from the Leicester No 7 allowed him to venture into the box, before teeing up Albrighton who smashed the ball into the top corner from the edge of the box.
Rennes improved after the half-time break and saw two separate shouts for a penalty waved away in their opening move of the second period.
Both James Justin and Soyuncu were accused of using their hands to defend a free-kick, while Rennes defender Nayef Aguerd could only find Schmeichel after the two ricochets.
Image:Leicester City's Marc Albrighton (right) celebrates with Youri Tielemans after scoringLeicester goalkeeper Schmeichel was twice called into action in quick succession, pushing away Terrier's effort with his feet before doing the same to deny Laborde from inside the box. Flavien Tait then curled wide of the Dane's near post as Rennes efforts to prove the Foxes goal fell flat.
And there was enough time for Iheanacho to curl home a second on the break to put daylight between them and their opponents. While Leicester and Rodgers will recognise this is only half-time in their European tie, a fourth straight win in all competitions has certainly eased the pressure on their manager.
Sky Sports / BBC pic
Leicester took control of their Europa Conference League last-16 tie with Rennes as Marc Albrighton and Kelechi Iheanacho earned them a 2-0 first-leg win.
A nervy start for Brendan Rodgers' side was blown out of the water when Albrighton smashed home Harvey Barnes' cutback from the edge of the box on the half-hour mark, following Caglar Soyuncu's defence-splitting pass over the Rennes defence.
And while the Foxes were relatively untroubled by their French opponents in their first-leg, Iheanacho's curling effort in stoppage time feels like a big moment in their season - with Rodgers' men picking up a fourth straight victory in all competitions, plus a first European clean sheet of the season. Leicester were without Jamie Vardy for the King Power Stadium leg, with the Foxes talisman looking a doubt for this weekend's Super Sunday clash at Arsenal, with Patson Daka starting in the former England international's place and James Maddison on the bench.
But Daka struggled to get involved in the early exchanges, with Rennes starting the better in the opening 20 minutes. Striker Gaeten Laborde went closest early on as he met Adrien Truffert's cross inside the Leicester penalty area, but could only fire wide of Kasper Schmeichel's post.
Team newsBrendan Rodgers made two changes to the side who beat Leeds at the weekend. Jamie Vardy is injured so Patson Daka replaced him at centre-forward. The other switch was at right-back as James Justin came in for Hamza Choudhury, for the English defender's first European appearance since December 2020.
Leicester's early nerves showed once again as a couple of sloppy moments in possession led to more Rennes chances. First, Martin Terrier saw a shot well-blocked by Daniel Amartey, before winger Benjamin Bourigeaud fired wide from inside the box.
But Leicester took control after the opening quarter of the game. As possession and pressure grew, Soyuncu played a glorious pass over the right-hand side of the Rennes backline towards Barnes. An excellent takedown from the Leicester No 7 allowed him to venture into the box, before teeing up Albrighton who smashed the ball into the top corner from the edge of the box.
Rennes improved after the half-time break and saw two separate shouts for a penalty waved away in their opening move of the second period.
Both James Justin and Soyuncu were accused of using their hands to defend a free-kick, while Rennes defender Nayef Aguerd could only find Schmeichel after the two ricochets.
Image:Leicester City's Marc Albrighton (right) celebrates with Youri Tielemans after scoringLeicester goalkeeper Schmeichel was twice called into action in quick succession, pushing away Terrier's effort with his feet before doing the same to deny Laborde from inside the box. Flavien Tait then curled wide of the Dane's near post as Rennes efforts to prove the Foxes goal fell flat.
And there was enough time for Iheanacho to curl home a second on the break to put daylight between them and their opponents. While Leicester and Rodgers will recognise this is only half-time in their European tie, a fourth straight win in all competitions has certainly eased the pressure on their manager.
Sky Sports / BBC pic
Wesley Fofana Signs New Leicester City Contract
Leicester City defender Wesley Fofana has signed a new deal with the Football Club, keeping him at King Power Stadium until at least 2027.
- Wesley Fofana signs new deal to 2027
- The defender joined the Foxes from AS Saint-Étienne in 2020
- He has made 38 appearances for City in all competitions
The 21-year-old joined City from Saint-Étienne in October 2020 and featured for the Foxes 38 times in all competitions last season, helping the Club to its first-ever Emirates FA Cup trophy.
Such were the level of his performances in his debut season for the Football Club, he became quickly established as one of the most exciting young talents in world football and following an injury suffered in pre-season, he is now close to a return to the squad.
Speaking to LCFC TV, Fofana said: “I’m really happy to sign a new contract. It shows the Club have confidence in me offering me a contract to 2027. I’m really happy to be here. It’s my Club, I love the fans, so I’m really happy and really looking forward to being back playing.
“I love everything about the Club. I love the city, I love the fans. It’s a family which is what I love the most. Everyone is close and gets on well. We also have a great team and are continuing to progress, with a desire to win more trophies. That’s why I have committed my future to the Club until 2027. I want to achieve more with the Club. There is a lot of talent here and still a lot more we can do together.”
Defender Wesley Fofana chats to LCFC TV in an exclusive interview about his new Foxes contract.
Born in Marseille, France, Fofana joined Saint-Étienne in 2015 as a 15-year-old and quickly earned a reputation as an emerging talent within Les Verts’ academy.
Having swiftly progressed through their youth system, Fofana signed his first professional contract with the club in May, 2018. His debut in green came a year later, making an appearance in Saint-Étienne's 3-0 Ligue 1 win over Nice in May, 2019.
The France Under-21s international went on to make 22 appearances for Les Verts in all competitions, scoring once, before making the switch to King Power Stadium in October 2020.
During his first season in England, Fofana won Leicester City's Young Player of the Season award, as the Foxes recorded a fifth-place finish in the Premier League and success in the Emirates FA Cup at Wembley Stadium.
LCFC.COM
Leicester City defender Wesley Fofana has signed a new deal with the Football Club, keeping him at King Power Stadium until at least 2027.
- Wesley Fofana signs new deal to 2027
- The defender joined the Foxes from AS Saint-Étienne in 2020
- He has made 38 appearances for City in all competitions
The 21-year-old joined City from Saint-Étienne in October 2020 and featured for the Foxes 38 times in all competitions last season, helping the Club to its first-ever Emirates FA Cup trophy.
Such were the level of his performances in his debut season for the Football Club, he became quickly established as one of the most exciting young talents in world football and following an injury suffered in pre-season, he is now close to a return to the squad.
Speaking to LCFC TV, Fofana said: “I’m really happy to sign a new contract. It shows the Club have confidence in me offering me a contract to 2027. I’m really happy to be here. It’s my Club, I love the fans, so I’m really happy and really looking forward to being back playing.
“I love everything about the Club. I love the city, I love the fans. It’s a family which is what I love the most. Everyone is close and gets on well. We also have a great team and are continuing to progress, with a desire to win more trophies. That’s why I have committed my future to the Club until 2027. I want to achieve more with the Club. There is a lot of talent here and still a lot more we can do together.”
Defender Wesley Fofana chats to LCFC TV in an exclusive interview about his new Foxes contract.
Born in Marseille, France, Fofana joined Saint-Étienne in 2015 as a 15-year-old and quickly earned a reputation as an emerging talent within Les Verts’ academy.
Having swiftly progressed through their youth system, Fofana signed his first professional contract with the club in May, 2018. His debut in green came a year later, making an appearance in Saint-Étienne's 3-0 Ligue 1 win over Nice in May, 2019.
The France Under-21s international went on to make 22 appearances for Les Verts in all competitions, scoring once, before making the switch to King Power Stadium in October 2020.
During his first season in England, Fofana won Leicester City's Young Player of the Season award, as the Foxes recorded a fifth-place finish in the Premier League and success in the Emirates FA Cup at Wembley Stadium.
LCFC.COM
Head Of Senior Player Recruitment Departs
Leicester City today confirms the departure of Head of Senior Player Recruitment Lee Congerton, following a three-year spell with the Club.
Having joined City from Celtic in May 2019, Lee played a central role in the Club’s player recruitment operation, helping to shape the squads that secured fifth-placed Premier League finishes in the last two seasons and the Club’s first ever FA Cup in 2021.
He will shortly take up a senior position with Serie A side Atalanta.
Leicester City would like to place on record its thanks to Lee for his contribution to a successful period in the Club’s history and wish him every success in his future career.
LCFC.COM
Leicester City today confirms the departure of Head of Senior Player Recruitment Lee Congerton, following a three-year spell with the Club.
Having joined City from Celtic in May 2019, Lee played a central role in the Club’s player recruitment operation, helping to shape the squads that secured fifth-placed Premier League finishes in the last two seasons and the Club’s first ever FA Cup in 2021.
He will shortly take up a senior position with Serie A side Atalanta.
Leicester City would like to place on record its thanks to Lee for his contribution to a successful period in the Club’s history and wish him every success in his future career.
LCFC.COM
Leicester City 1-0 Leeds United
Jesse Marsch's first game as Leeds boss ended in defeat as Harvey Barnes scored the only goal to give Leicester their second Premier League win of the week.
The winger produced Leicester's one moment of attacking quality with a precise angled finish midway through the second half of a game in which they had been largely second best.
It has been an emotional week for Leeds since the departure of Marsch's much-loved predecessor Marcelo Bielsa following a chastening month in which they conceded 20 goals and picked up only one point from a possible 15.
But they produced a lively and energetic display at the King Power Stadium that showcased a change of shape and the hard-pressing, direct football preferred by their American manager.
Better finishing from Jack Harrison, Rodrigo, Junior Firpo or Raphinha would have given Leeds a win they so desperately need to ease their relegation concerns.
Having spurned them, they left themselves vulnerable to a decisive moment like the one Barnes produced.
Victory lifted Leicester to 10th in the table. Leeds remain two points above the bottom three, having played two games more than 18th-placed Burnley.Whether you have Bielsa, Marsch or any other manager in charge, the old adage remains true: if you don't take your chances when on top, you risk being punished.
It was a recurring failing of Leeds under Bielsa that they failed to make good on the bountiful chances they often produced in games long before they were shipping goals to the tune of 20 in a month.
While Marsch changed a number of things in his first game in charge - a new 4-2-2-2 formation and quicker play through the middle - it was the old problem of conversion that cost Leeds.
Kasper Schmeichel can take some credit for repelling the visitors, producing saves to deny Dan James, Harrison, Rodrigo and, in the best of all from close range, Raphinha.
Caglar Soyuncu was also on hand to brilliantly block Junior's goalbound shot from inside the box.
This all set up Leicester, who until then had offered very little barring the occasional threat of the returning Jamie Vardy getting in on goal with long balls over the top.
Barnes is a player building his reputation weekly and, after sharing a one-two with Kelechi Iheanacho, he slotted a low shot across goal and past the diving Illan Meslier.
Leeds continued to press forward, but their moment had passed and Leicester were able to see the game out to add another three points to those earned at Burnley on Tuesday.
Marsch gathered his players in a huddle in the centre circle at full-time. His message will surely have been to focus on the multiple positives.
No points, but plenty to take forward into a run of crucial games beginning with Aston Villa and Norwich at home next week
Jesse Marsch's first game as Leeds boss ended in defeat as Harvey Barnes scored the only goal to give Leicester their second Premier League win of the week.
The winger produced Leicester's one moment of attacking quality with a precise angled finish midway through the second half of a game in which they had been largely second best.
It has been an emotional week for Leeds since the departure of Marsch's much-loved predecessor Marcelo Bielsa following a chastening month in which they conceded 20 goals and picked up only one point from a possible 15.
But they produced a lively and energetic display at the King Power Stadium that showcased a change of shape and the hard-pressing, direct football preferred by their American manager.
Better finishing from Jack Harrison, Rodrigo, Junior Firpo or Raphinha would have given Leeds a win they so desperately need to ease their relegation concerns.
Having spurned them, they left themselves vulnerable to a decisive moment like the one Barnes produced.
Victory lifted Leicester to 10th in the table. Leeds remain two points above the bottom three, having played two games more than 18th-placed Burnley.Whether you have Bielsa, Marsch or any other manager in charge, the old adage remains true: if you don't take your chances when on top, you risk being punished.
It was a recurring failing of Leeds under Bielsa that they failed to make good on the bountiful chances they often produced in games long before they were shipping goals to the tune of 20 in a month.
While Marsch changed a number of things in his first game in charge - a new 4-2-2-2 formation and quicker play through the middle - it was the old problem of conversion that cost Leeds.
Kasper Schmeichel can take some credit for repelling the visitors, producing saves to deny Dan James, Harrison, Rodrigo and, in the best of all from close range, Raphinha.
Caglar Soyuncu was also on hand to brilliantly block Junior's goalbound shot from inside the box.
This all set up Leicester, who until then had offered very little barring the occasional threat of the returning Jamie Vardy getting in on goal with long balls over the top.
Barnes is a player building his reputation weekly and, after sharing a one-two with Kelechi Iheanacho, he slotted a low shot across goal and past the diving Illan Meslier.
Leeds continued to press forward, but their moment had passed and Leicester were able to see the game out to add another three points to those earned at Burnley on Tuesday.
Marsch gathered his players in a huddle in the centre circle at full-time. His message will surely have been to focus on the multiple positives.
No points, but plenty to take forward into a run of crucial games beginning with Aston Villa and Norwich at home next week
Burnley 0-2 Leicester
James Maddison and Jamie Vardy score off the bench as Foxes keep Clarets in bottom three
Leicester claimed their first Premier League win of 2022 as second-half goals from James Maddison and the returning Jamie Vardy gave them victory over a Burnley side who remain in the relegation zone as a result.
Midfielder Maddison struck a fine decisive finish, curling a shot into the bottom corner from outside the box after being set up by Vardy, making his first appearance of the year after injury.
And the striker sealed the points with a close-range header from Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
It had been a largely even game before that, although the Foxes did fashion the greater number of chances, finding home keeper Nick Pope in fine form.
The Clarets had the ball in the net in the first half, but Maxwel Cornet was adjudged to have moved a fraction early to tap in Aaron Lennon's low cross.
The win takes the Foxes to 30 points and allows them to breathe more easily after a poor recent run of league results.
There is no respite for Sean Dyche's side, who have seen their recent crucial revival checked and stay in the bottom three, a point behind 17th-placed Everton.
After two fifth-place finishes, this league campaign is now one of earning Premier League respectability while continuing to challenge for the last remaining piece of silverware on offer - the inaugural Europa Conference League.
There have been extenuating circumstances for the Foxes' downturn this season, not least of all Vardy's extended absence, but they have looked a soft touch at times at the back, with the gradual sapping of confidence taking away their attacking verve.
Prior to this game, they were the only side without an away clean sheet in the top flight this season, shipping 25 goals in 11 games on the road as part of a run of 18 top-flight matches away from the King Power Stadium without stopping the opposition scoring.
They had also conceded a league-high 18 times from set-pieces.
This result - and the performance to earn it - was crucial then, coming against a side with two wins and a draw from the past three matches, scrapping for every point and providing of the sternest of tests to a defence from corners and free-kicks.
As pleasing for Brendan Rodgers as the two goals - both superbly taken by two substitutes providing that requisite touch of class from the bench - will be the way his side kept the Clarets contained.
Aside from Cornet's disallowed tap-in, the home side were kept to half-chances, with the Ivorian poking another effort wide in the second-half and Wout Weghorst failing to convert at the back post shortly after Leicester's opener.
Better chances came at the other end, with Nick Pope required to demonstrate his strong positioning and reflexes on a number of occasions to deny Ricardo Pereira, Patson Daka and Harvey Barnes.
The icing on the cake was Vardy's sharpness after coming on. He acrobatically volleyed one effort over, was quick and smart to stay onside and latch on to Kasper Schmeichel's clearance to set up Maddison and perfectly placed to claim his goal.
He will now be champing at the bit to start against Leeds on Saturday. Burnley, meanwhile, have a tough trip to Chelsea as they again seek to claw their way out of the bottom three.
BBC /Sky
James Maddison and Jamie Vardy score off the bench as Foxes keep Clarets in bottom three
Leicester claimed their first Premier League win of 2022 as second-half goals from James Maddison and the returning Jamie Vardy gave them victory over a Burnley side who remain in the relegation zone as a result.
Midfielder Maddison struck a fine decisive finish, curling a shot into the bottom corner from outside the box after being set up by Vardy, making his first appearance of the year after injury.
And the striker sealed the points with a close-range header from Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
It had been a largely even game before that, although the Foxes did fashion the greater number of chances, finding home keeper Nick Pope in fine form.
The Clarets had the ball in the net in the first half, but Maxwel Cornet was adjudged to have moved a fraction early to tap in Aaron Lennon's low cross.
The win takes the Foxes to 30 points and allows them to breathe more easily after a poor recent run of league results.
There is no respite for Sean Dyche's side, who have seen their recent crucial revival checked and stay in the bottom three, a point behind 17th-placed Everton.
After two fifth-place finishes, this league campaign is now one of earning Premier League respectability while continuing to challenge for the last remaining piece of silverware on offer - the inaugural Europa Conference League.
There have been extenuating circumstances for the Foxes' downturn this season, not least of all Vardy's extended absence, but they have looked a soft touch at times at the back, with the gradual sapping of confidence taking away their attacking verve.
Prior to this game, they were the only side without an away clean sheet in the top flight this season, shipping 25 goals in 11 games on the road as part of a run of 18 top-flight matches away from the King Power Stadium without stopping the opposition scoring.
They had also conceded a league-high 18 times from set-pieces.
This result - and the performance to earn it - was crucial then, coming against a side with two wins and a draw from the past three matches, scrapping for every point and providing of the sternest of tests to a defence from corners and free-kicks.
As pleasing for Brendan Rodgers as the two goals - both superbly taken by two substitutes providing that requisite touch of class from the bench - will be the way his side kept the Clarets contained.
Aside from Cornet's disallowed tap-in, the home side were kept to half-chances, with the Ivorian poking another effort wide in the second-half and Wout Weghorst failing to convert at the back post shortly after Leicester's opener.
Better chances came at the other end, with Nick Pope required to demonstrate his strong positioning and reflexes on a number of occasions to deny Ricardo Pereira, Patson Daka and Harvey Barnes.
The icing on the cake was Vardy's sharpness after coming on. He acrobatically volleyed one effort over, was quick and smart to stay onside and latch on to Kasper Schmeichel's clearance to set up Maddison and perfectly placed to claim his goal.
He will now be champing at the bit to start against Leeds on Saturday. Burnley, meanwhile, have a tough trip to Chelsea as they again seek to claw their way out of the bottom three.
BBC /Sky
Leicester City discover UEFA Europa Conference League round of 16 opponents
Leicester City have discovered their round of 16 opponents this afternoon after defeating Randers in the knockout round play-off
Leicester City will face Stade Rennais in the UEFA Europa Conference League round of 16.
City will host the French team at the King Power Stadium on March 10 before travelling to Rennes the following week.
Leicester reached this stage after a 7-2 aggregate win over Randers in the knockout round play-off.
For Leicester, the competition is their best chance of qualifying for the Europa League next season given their struggles in the Premier League this term.
If they were to get past Stade Rennais, City would be into the quarter-finals.
Leicester Mercury
Leicester City have discovered their round of 16 opponents this afternoon after defeating Randers in the knockout round play-off
Leicester City will face Stade Rennais in the UEFA Europa Conference League round of 16.
City will host the French team at the King Power Stadium on March 10 before travelling to Rennes the following week.
Leicester reached this stage after a 7-2 aggregate win over Randers in the knockout round play-off.
For Leicester, the competition is their best chance of qualifying for the Europa League next season given their struggles in the Premier League this term.
If they were to get past Stade Rennais, City would be into the quarter-finals.
Leicester Mercury
Randers FC 1-3 Leicester City | Conference play off 2nd Leg
James Maddison scored two beauties as Leicester made light work of Danish side Randers with a 7-2 rout on aggregate to reach the last 16 of the Europa Conference League.
Brendan Rodgers' men came into this knockout stage play-off round after finishing third in their Europa League group, but navigated the tie with few issues.
Holding a 4-1 lead from the first leg, it took Leicester just 100 seconds to extend their advantage as Harvey Barnes broke clear and curled a delightful finish into the far corner.
The England international could have added another in the second half but fired wide from an acute angle.
Compatriot Maddison then netted twice in the space of four minutes with a free-kick into the top corner and a sumptuous curling strike from 25 yards.
Randers did pull a goal back late on when Kasper Schmeichel's heavy touch on the ball allowed Stephen Odey to nip in and convert a gift from close range.
The draw for the Europa Conference League takes place on Friday when the Foxes will be picked out of the pot against a group winner.
After his side's Europa League exit at the hands of Napoli in December, boss Rodgers said he did not "even know" what the Europa Conference League was.
Now he does.
Uefa's newly-formed third club competition represents Leicester's only chance of claiming silverware this season after suffering a shock exit in the FA Cup, being knocked out of the Carabao Cup and lying in the bottom half of the Premier League.
Their overall form has been poor this season with Rodgers criticising his players' performance in the FA Cup loss at Championship side Nottingham Forest, though the side have not been helped by injuries to key players.
They will be glad to have faced Randers as their two victories in the last eight games in all competitions have been against the Danish outfit. The success also ended a run of four straight defeats away from home.
Though they were in a commanding position heading into the second leg, Rodgers still selected a strong side with mostly first-team regulars and the contest was ended courtesy of Barnes' coolly-taken goal.
It was a morale-boosting showing for Maddison and a decent performance was capped off by two well-taken goals in the second period.
Randers, who lie sixth in the Danish top flight, had numerous chances and, although Schmeichel made a stunning reflex save to deny Odey, the goalkeeper's blunder six minutes from time gave the home fans something to cheer on the night.
Who could Leicester be drawn against?
AZ Alkmaar (Ned), Basel (Swi), Copenhagen (Den), Feyenoord (Ned), Gent (Bel), LASK (Aut), Rennes (Fra), Roma (Ita).
BBC Sport
James Maddison scored two beauties as Leicester made light work of Danish side Randers with a 7-2 rout on aggregate to reach the last 16 of the Europa Conference League.
Brendan Rodgers' men came into this knockout stage play-off round after finishing third in their Europa League group, but navigated the tie with few issues.
Holding a 4-1 lead from the first leg, it took Leicester just 100 seconds to extend their advantage as Harvey Barnes broke clear and curled a delightful finish into the far corner.
The England international could have added another in the second half but fired wide from an acute angle.
Compatriot Maddison then netted twice in the space of four minutes with a free-kick into the top corner and a sumptuous curling strike from 25 yards.
Randers did pull a goal back late on when Kasper Schmeichel's heavy touch on the ball allowed Stephen Odey to nip in and convert a gift from close range.
The draw for the Europa Conference League takes place on Friday when the Foxes will be picked out of the pot against a group winner.
After his side's Europa League exit at the hands of Napoli in December, boss Rodgers said he did not "even know" what the Europa Conference League was.
Now he does.
Uefa's newly-formed third club competition represents Leicester's only chance of claiming silverware this season after suffering a shock exit in the FA Cup, being knocked out of the Carabao Cup and lying in the bottom half of the Premier League.
Their overall form has been poor this season with Rodgers criticising his players' performance in the FA Cup loss at Championship side Nottingham Forest, though the side have not been helped by injuries to key players.
They will be glad to have faced Randers as their two victories in the last eight games in all competitions have been against the Danish outfit. The success also ended a run of four straight defeats away from home.
Though they were in a commanding position heading into the second leg, Rodgers still selected a strong side with mostly first-team regulars and the contest was ended courtesy of Barnes' coolly-taken goal.
It was a morale-boosting showing for Maddison and a decent performance was capped off by two well-taken goals in the second period.
Randers, who lie sixth in the Danish top flight, had numerous chances and, although Schmeichel made a stunning reflex save to deny Odey, the goalkeeper's blunder six minutes from time gave the home fans something to cheer on the night.
Who could Leicester be drawn against?
AZ Alkmaar (Ned), Basel (Swi), Copenhagen (Den), Feyenoord (Ned), Gent (Bel), LASK (Aut), Rennes (Fra), Roma (Ita).
BBC Sport
James Justin signs new contract until 2026
Leicester City defender James Justin has signed a new contract committing him to the club until 2026.
The 24-year-old has made 54 appearances for the Foxes since joining from Luton in the summer of 2019.
The full-back suffered a serious knee injury in February 2021 that kept him out for 11 months but he has since returned to full fitness.
"There is only one place I want to be at now and that's Leicester City," said Justin.
"They've put great faith in me over the past year when I've been out injured.
"It just shows what a great club Leicester is that they're willing to give me a new deal when I'm just returning from injury.
"I'm just happy to extend my stay here and hopefully I can see [the fans] cheering us on in every game we have at King Power Stadium and all the away games and hopefully in European competitions for the next few years."
BBC Sport
Leicester City defender James Justin has signed a new contract committing him to the club until 2026.
The 24-year-old has made 54 appearances for the Foxes since joining from Luton in the summer of 2019.
The full-back suffered a serious knee injury in February 2021 that kept him out for 11 months but he has since returned to full fitness.
"There is only one place I want to be at now and that's Leicester City," said Justin.
"They've put great faith in me over the past year when I've been out injured.
"It just shows what a great club Leicester is that they're willing to give me a new deal when I'm just returning from injury.
"I'm just happy to extend my stay here and hopefully I can see [the fans] cheering us on in every game we have at King Power Stadium and all the away games and hopefully in European competitions for the next few years."
BBC Sport
Wolves 2-1 Leicester City
Premier League
Wolves maintained their push for a European place as excellent goals from Ruben Neves and Daniel Podence proved enough to beat Leicester in a thrilling Midlands derby at Molineux.
Neves put the hosts ahead after nine minutes as he applied a precise finish to Raul Jimenez's lay-off from the edge of the area, to take it past an unsighted Kasper Schmeichel.
Then, after Ademola Lookman slid in ahead of Leander Dendoncker to turn home Marc Albrighton's low cross from close range for the Foxes four minutes before the break, Podence struck Wolves' second to seal the points.
In front of Gareth Southgate's assistant Steve Holland, England hopeful Max Kilman carried the ball out of defence before setting Rayan Ait-Nouri away with a superb cross-field pass. Ait-Nouri fed Dendoncker, who in turn moved the ball to Podence, who took one touch before driving his shot into the bottom corner.
It was Wolves' fifth win in six Premier League games in 2022 and puts them seventh - six points behind fourth-placed Manchester United - with two games in hand.
For Leicester, it was another disappointing day during a period where they have collected just two points from five games and been knocked out of the FA Cup by local rivals Nottingham Forest.
It was testament to the work of Wolves head groundsman Wayne Lumbard that the pitch allowed for such a good game given the soaking it suffered in the hours before kick-off. Supporters in the uncovered Graham Hughes Stand were given plastic raincoats on a horrible, grey day as the game started in teeming rain.
Ticket holders in the top corner of the Stan Cullis Stand had to be relocated for safety reasons due to the high winds that accompanied the rain.
The inhospitable conditions didn't seem to bother the home players too much, even though all but three come from either southern Europe, north Africa or South and Central America. Goal-wise, this was one of the more entertaining encounters this season at Molineux, which has seen only one top-flight game yield more than today's three-goal tally.
Wolves carried all the early threat and had Neves' clinical opener to show for it.
Rayan Ait-Nouri should have done better when Daniel Podence's brilliant piece of trickery on the side of the area offered enough space to roll a pass into the wing-back's path, which he fired wide.
Nevertheless, thanks to Podence, Wolves were able to extend a bizarre top-flight record this season of winning 12 of the 13 games in which they have scored, drawing the other one.
And, beyond the victory, there was good news in the return of Pedro Neto, who has been out for 10 months with a major knee injury.
Neto couldn't mark the occasion with a goal as he chipped over with the last kick as Wolves broke from a Leicester corner Kasper Schmeichel had gone forward for - but he will be delighted to be back nonetheless.
BBC Sport
Premier League
Wolves maintained their push for a European place as excellent goals from Ruben Neves and Daniel Podence proved enough to beat Leicester in a thrilling Midlands derby at Molineux.
Neves put the hosts ahead after nine minutes as he applied a precise finish to Raul Jimenez's lay-off from the edge of the area, to take it past an unsighted Kasper Schmeichel.
Then, after Ademola Lookman slid in ahead of Leander Dendoncker to turn home Marc Albrighton's low cross from close range for the Foxes four minutes before the break, Podence struck Wolves' second to seal the points.
In front of Gareth Southgate's assistant Steve Holland, England hopeful Max Kilman carried the ball out of defence before setting Rayan Ait-Nouri away with a superb cross-field pass. Ait-Nouri fed Dendoncker, who in turn moved the ball to Podence, who took one touch before driving his shot into the bottom corner.
It was Wolves' fifth win in six Premier League games in 2022 and puts them seventh - six points behind fourth-placed Manchester United - with two games in hand.
For Leicester, it was another disappointing day during a period where they have collected just two points from five games and been knocked out of the FA Cup by local rivals Nottingham Forest.
It was testament to the work of Wolves head groundsman Wayne Lumbard that the pitch allowed for such a good game given the soaking it suffered in the hours before kick-off. Supporters in the uncovered Graham Hughes Stand were given plastic raincoats on a horrible, grey day as the game started in teeming rain.
Ticket holders in the top corner of the Stan Cullis Stand had to be relocated for safety reasons due to the high winds that accompanied the rain.
The inhospitable conditions didn't seem to bother the home players too much, even though all but three come from either southern Europe, north Africa or South and Central America. Goal-wise, this was one of the more entertaining encounters this season at Molineux, which has seen only one top-flight game yield more than today's three-goal tally.
Wolves carried all the early threat and had Neves' clinical opener to show for it.
Rayan Ait-Nouri should have done better when Daniel Podence's brilliant piece of trickery on the side of the area offered enough space to roll a pass into the wing-back's path, which he fired wide.
Nevertheless, thanks to Podence, Wolves were able to extend a bizarre top-flight record this season of winning 12 of the 13 games in which they have scored, drawing the other one.
And, beyond the victory, there was good news in the return of Pedro Neto, who has been out for 10 months with a major knee injury.
Neto couldn't mark the occasion with a goal as he chipped over with the last kick as Wolves broke from a Leicester corner Kasper Schmeichel had gone forward for - but he will be delighted to be back nonetheless.
BBC Sport
Ricardo Pereira Pens New Deal With Leicester City
Leicester City is delighted to confirm that Ricardo Pereira has signed a contract extension with the Football Club, keeping him at King Power Stadium until at least 2026.
The Portuguese international right-back, who joined City from Porto in May 2018, has made more than 100 appearances in all competitions for the Club to-date.
An attacking full-back, Ricardo has caught the eye with a number of exciting performances during his time on Filbert Way, with the 28-year-old featuring on 14 occasions so far this term.
Speaking to LCFC.com, Ricardo said: “I would say this is the natural thing to happen. I’m happy here. I think the Club is happy. It’s a win-win situation. To be in the Premier League, at a club like Leicester, it’s something when I was young which was far, far away. Now, I have to enjoy the moment and enjoy the present and keep doing by best for the Club and for me.”
How Leicester City announced the news that Ricardo Pereira has signed a new deal until at least 2026.
Born in Lisbon, Ricardo started his senior career with Vitória de Guimarães, and made his Primeira Liga debut in a 3-1 win over Pacos de Ferreira in April 2012.
He signed for Porto in July 2013 and made his first UEFA Champions League appearance against Lille a year later, before joining Nice on loan in summer 2015.
While in France, where he spent two seasons, he established himself as one of the best full-backs in Ligue 1, playing 56 times for Les Aiglons.
His performances in the south of France earned him a move to Filbert Way and he joined the Foxes from Porto in May 2018.
He made his Premier League bow against Manchester United at Old Trafford on the opening day of the 2018/19 campaign and endeared himself to the Blue Army with a string of impressive displays.
Hear from full-back Ricardo Pereira after the Portuguese committed his future to Leicester City with a new deal until 2026.
Building a reputation as one of the most talented full-backs in the Premier League, Ricardo was named the Club’s Player and Players' Player of the Year at the conclusion of his maiden year as a Fox.
His stock continued to rise in 2019/20, with goals against Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle and West Ham United leading to victories on all three occasions, and although injury cut short that season, he returned to action in 2020/21.
Internationally, he has represented Portugal at various youth levels before making the step-up to the senior side and starring for his country at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
LCFC.COM
Leicester City is delighted to confirm that Ricardo Pereira has signed a contract extension with the Football Club, keeping him at King Power Stadium until at least 2026.
The Portuguese international right-back, who joined City from Porto in May 2018, has made more than 100 appearances in all competitions for the Club to-date.
An attacking full-back, Ricardo has caught the eye with a number of exciting performances during his time on Filbert Way, with the 28-year-old featuring on 14 occasions so far this term.
Speaking to LCFC.com, Ricardo said: “I would say this is the natural thing to happen. I’m happy here. I think the Club is happy. It’s a win-win situation. To be in the Premier League, at a club like Leicester, it’s something when I was young which was far, far away. Now, I have to enjoy the moment and enjoy the present and keep doing by best for the Club and for me.”
How Leicester City announced the news that Ricardo Pereira has signed a new deal until at least 2026.
Born in Lisbon, Ricardo started his senior career with Vitória de Guimarães, and made his Primeira Liga debut in a 3-1 win over Pacos de Ferreira in April 2012.
He signed for Porto in July 2013 and made his first UEFA Champions League appearance against Lille a year later, before joining Nice on loan in summer 2015.
While in France, where he spent two seasons, he established himself as one of the best full-backs in Ligue 1, playing 56 times for Les Aiglons.
His performances in the south of France earned him a move to Filbert Way and he joined the Foxes from Porto in May 2018.
He made his Premier League bow against Manchester United at Old Trafford on the opening day of the 2018/19 campaign and endeared himself to the Blue Army with a string of impressive displays.
Hear from full-back Ricardo Pereira after the Portuguese committed his future to Leicester City with a new deal until 2026.
Building a reputation as one of the most talented full-backs in the Premier League, Ricardo was named the Club’s Player and Players' Player of the Year at the conclusion of his maiden year as a Fox.
His stock continued to rise in 2019/20, with goals against Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle and West Ham United leading to victories on all three occasions, and although injury cut short that season, he returned to action in 2020/21.
Internationally, he has represented Portugal at various youth levels before making the step-up to the senior side and starring for his country at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
LCFC.COM
Rodgers 'nowhere near finished' at Leicester
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers says he’s “loved every second” of his time at Leicester and that he is on a journey that “is nowhere near finished”.
Rodgers has been in charge of the Foxes since February 2019, leading them to successive fifth-placed finishes and winning the FA Cup last season.
This season, however, has been more challenging, with Leicester currently in 11th position and 10 points off the European spots. “Progress isn’t always linear – there’s going to be fits and starts,” he said before Sunday’s game with seventh-placed Wolves.
“It’s a challenge to be up there competing when you have all your players fit – and when you look at the players we’ve been missing, it’s logic where we are this year. “But we’ll keep fighting and, for me, it’s about returning to our level of football. In time we’ll get to that, we’ll get players back and you can only do your best.”
Rodgers was critical of his players after the heavy FA Cup loss to Championship side Nottingham Forest earlier this month but defended his honesty.“I always think to be honest is the easiest way,” he said. “I’ve always been very supportive, but sometimes it is being harsh that gives clarity to players.
“I love working with them, the club have been very supportive of me and I will continue to do that until I’m told otherwise.”
BBC
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers says he’s “loved every second” of his time at Leicester and that he is on a journey that “is nowhere near finished”.
Rodgers has been in charge of the Foxes since February 2019, leading them to successive fifth-placed finishes and winning the FA Cup last season.
This season, however, has been more challenging, with Leicester currently in 11th position and 10 points off the European spots. “Progress isn’t always linear – there’s going to be fits and starts,” he said before Sunday’s game with seventh-placed Wolves.
“It’s a challenge to be up there competing when you have all your players fit – and when you look at the players we’ve been missing, it’s logic where we are this year. “But we’ll keep fighting and, for me, it’s about returning to our level of football. In time we’ll get to that, we’ll get players back and you can only do your best.”
Rodgers was critical of his players after the heavy FA Cup loss to Championship side Nottingham Forest earlier this month but defended his honesty.“I always think to be honest is the easiest way,” he said. “I’ve always been very supportive, but sometimes it is being harsh that gives clarity to players.
“I love working with them, the club have been very supportive of me and I will continue to do that until I’m told otherwise.”
BBC
Leicester City 4 -1 Randers FC
Europa Conference League Play off
Foxes dominate 2nd half to take lead into 2nd leg in Denmark
Leicester City beat Danish side Randers in their Europa Conference League knockout round play-off first leg.
Wilfried Ndidi gave the Foxes the lead with a side-footed finish from Ademola Lookman's pass.
Vito Hammershoej-Mistrati levelled for Randers against the run of play, but Harvey Barnes restored the lead with a turn and clever finish.
Patson Daka added a third and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall slotted home after good work by Kelechi Iheanacho.
Daka appeared offside before tapping in after Youri Tielemans' shot was parried - but the video assistant referee system is only used in the final of Uefa's newest tournament.
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers claimed he did not know what this competition was or that his side were in it after finishing third in their Europa League group.
But he named a strong team nonetheless and the second leg in Denmark next week should be a formality.
The winners of this tie face one of the Europa Conference League group winners in the last 16.
Winning the whole thing would put Leicester in next year's Europa League and it may be their best bet of doing so.
They were far too good for the Danish Cup winners, who have never been further than the first round of a European competition before.
Daka headed over, Dewsbury-Hall had a shot cleared off line, Caglar Soyuncu had a half-volley saved and Daniel Amartey headed wide - all before the first goal.
The chances continued to come, 23 shots in total, and they will rarely have an easier night in Europe.
BBC
Europa Conference League Play off
Foxes dominate 2nd half to take lead into 2nd leg in Denmark
Leicester City beat Danish side Randers in their Europa Conference League knockout round play-off first leg.
Wilfried Ndidi gave the Foxes the lead with a side-footed finish from Ademola Lookman's pass.
Vito Hammershoej-Mistrati levelled for Randers against the run of play, but Harvey Barnes restored the lead with a turn and clever finish.
Patson Daka added a third and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall slotted home after good work by Kelechi Iheanacho.
Daka appeared offside before tapping in after Youri Tielemans' shot was parried - but the video assistant referee system is only used in the final of Uefa's newest tournament.
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers claimed he did not know what this competition was or that his side were in it after finishing third in their Europa League group.
But he named a strong team nonetheless and the second leg in Denmark next week should be a formality.
The winners of this tie face one of the Europa Conference League group winners in the last 16.
Winning the whole thing would put Leicester in next year's Europa League and it may be their best bet of doing so.
They were far too good for the Danish Cup winners, who have never been further than the first round of a European competition before.
Daka headed over, Dewsbury-Hall had a shot cleared off line, Caglar Soyuncu had a half-volley saved and Daniel Amartey headed wide - all before the first goal.
The chances continued to come, 23 shots in total, and they will rarely have an easier night in Europe.
BBC
Leicester reveal pre-tax losses of £33.1 MILLION despite winning FA Cup and coming fifth in Prem due to Covid pandemic
LEICESTER CITY suffered pre-tax losses of £33.1million during the Covid-hit 2020-21 season which was largely played behind closed-doors.
But Brendan Rodgers' Foxes were bailed out by Chairman Top Srivadhannaprabha who loaned the club £30million to get through the worst effects of the pandemic.
On a more positive note, winning the FA Cup and finishing fifth in the Premier League for the second season on the spin saw the Foxes increase their revenue by £76.2million on the previous year to £226.2million (£150M in 2020).
The club's accounts for 2020-21 show Covid cost the Foxes an eye-watering £36.1million in total due to lost gate receipts, reduced FA Cup payments and the collapse of a broadcasting deal in China.
To cover the costs, owners King Power and chairman Aiyawatt 'Top' Srivaddahanaprabha continue to back the club, with Top himself providing a £30m working capital loan during the season.
The club said in a statement: “Now in its 12th year as part of the King Power Group – a period of unprecedented success for Leicester City – the club’s long-term financial stability continues to be provided by the Srivaddhanaprabha family, whose passion for the club, its supporters and the city continues to shape a long-term vision for sustainable success.”
Leicester City's total debt is currently £267m, with £180m of that owed to King Power or the chairman.
Leicester also noted they opened their new £100million state-of-the-art training facility in Seagrave during the same financial period which they believe will help attract top senior and Academy level talent to the club.
City Chief Executive Susan Whelan said: “A second season in the grip of the pandemic, played almost entirely without supporters, presented a great number of challenges.
"That we were able to turn that into one of the most successful seasons in the Club’s history – across our teams – is testament to the diligence and skill of our personnel, the unending support of our fans and the performances of our team on the pitch.
“Our Chairman, Khun Aiyawatt, and the entire Srivaddhanaprabha family have been there for the Club throughout, providing security across the business that has enabled us to continue investing in excellence, while supporting the welfare of our staff and communities throughout challenging times."
The Sun
LEICESTER CITY suffered pre-tax losses of £33.1million during the Covid-hit 2020-21 season which was largely played behind closed-doors.
But Brendan Rodgers' Foxes were bailed out by Chairman Top Srivadhannaprabha who loaned the club £30million to get through the worst effects of the pandemic.
On a more positive note, winning the FA Cup and finishing fifth in the Premier League for the second season on the spin saw the Foxes increase their revenue by £76.2million on the previous year to £226.2million (£150M in 2020).
The club's accounts for 2020-21 show Covid cost the Foxes an eye-watering £36.1million in total due to lost gate receipts, reduced FA Cup payments and the collapse of a broadcasting deal in China.
To cover the costs, owners King Power and chairman Aiyawatt 'Top' Srivaddahanaprabha continue to back the club, with Top himself providing a £30m working capital loan during the season.
The club said in a statement: “Now in its 12th year as part of the King Power Group – a period of unprecedented success for Leicester City – the club’s long-term financial stability continues to be provided by the Srivaddhanaprabha family, whose passion for the club, its supporters and the city continues to shape a long-term vision for sustainable success.”
Leicester City's total debt is currently £267m, with £180m of that owed to King Power or the chairman.
Leicester also noted they opened their new £100million state-of-the-art training facility in Seagrave during the same financial period which they believe will help attract top senior and Academy level talent to the club.
City Chief Executive Susan Whelan said: “A second season in the grip of the pandemic, played almost entirely without supporters, presented a great number of challenges.
"That we were able to turn that into one of the most successful seasons in the Club’s history – across our teams – is testament to the diligence and skill of our personnel, the unending support of our fans and the performances of our team on the pitch.
“Our Chairman, Khun Aiyawatt, and the entire Srivaddhanaprabha family have been there for the Club throughout, providing security across the business that has enabled us to continue investing in excellence, while supporting the welfare of our staff and communities throughout challenging times."
The Sun
Leicester 2-2 West Ham United
Premier League
Craig Dawson's injury-time header earned West Ham United a crucial point in the fight to finish in the top four just as Leicester City looked set to put their recent struggles behind them.
The first serious questions were being asked about manager Brendan Rodgers after the FA Cup fourth-round thrashing at Nottingham Forest was followed by defeat at Liverpool.
The Foxes made a slow start and were punished by Jarrod Bowen's 10th-minute strike. But they were gifted a lifeline right on half-time when Aaron Cresswell needlessly handled James Maddison's corner, Youri Tielemans drilling home the penalty.
Leicester were galvanised and further rewarded for their improvement when Ricardo Pereira headed home a Harvey Barnes cross after 57 minutes.
West Ham, who were without controversial defender Kurt Zouma after he felt unwell in the warm-up, had lost their way, but rescued the draw that keeps them a point ahead of Manchester United in fourth. Dawson rose highest to meet a Bowen corner and score with a looping header.
The fragile state of affairs at Leicester was illustrated by the sound of groans and jeers as they passed the ball around at the back after West Ham took an early lead.
Frustration was in the air and returned at the final whistle when the Foxes lost the advantage late on, for the third time recently after losing to Tottenham and drawing with Brighton.
It was a desperate body blow for Rodgers and his players who looked like stepping out of their malaise as they were moments away from coming from behind to win.
The pain was etched on faces all around the King Power Stadium as this was a movie they have seen before.
Leicester have a soft centre without key defenders Jonny Evans and Wesley Fofana.
It was exposed by Issa Diop's pass for Bowen's goal and then again in stoppage time, even after Rodgers had sent on the giant figure of Jannik Vestergaard late on, presumably to guard against such an eventuality as Dawson's goal.
So near and yet so far for The Foxes. Again.
BBC
Premier League
Craig Dawson's injury-time header earned West Ham United a crucial point in the fight to finish in the top four just as Leicester City looked set to put their recent struggles behind them.
The first serious questions were being asked about manager Brendan Rodgers after the FA Cup fourth-round thrashing at Nottingham Forest was followed by defeat at Liverpool.
The Foxes made a slow start and were punished by Jarrod Bowen's 10th-minute strike. But they were gifted a lifeline right on half-time when Aaron Cresswell needlessly handled James Maddison's corner, Youri Tielemans drilling home the penalty.
Leicester were galvanised and further rewarded for their improvement when Ricardo Pereira headed home a Harvey Barnes cross after 57 minutes.
West Ham, who were without controversial defender Kurt Zouma after he felt unwell in the warm-up, had lost their way, but rescued the draw that keeps them a point ahead of Manchester United in fourth. Dawson rose highest to meet a Bowen corner and score with a looping header.
The fragile state of affairs at Leicester was illustrated by the sound of groans and jeers as they passed the ball around at the back after West Ham took an early lead.
Frustration was in the air and returned at the final whistle when the Foxes lost the advantage late on, for the third time recently after losing to Tottenham and drawing with Brighton.
It was a desperate body blow for Rodgers and his players who looked like stepping out of their malaise as they were moments away from coming from behind to win.
The pain was etched on faces all around the King Power Stadium as this was a movie they have seen before.
Leicester have a soft centre without key defenders Jonny Evans and Wesley Fofana.
It was exposed by Issa Diop's pass for Bowen's goal and then again in stoppage time, even after Rodgers had sent on the giant figure of Jannik Vestergaard late on, presumably to guard against such an eventuality as Dawson's goal.
So near and yet so far for The Foxes. Again.
BBC
Liverpool 2-0 Leicester
Diogo Jota scores twice as Reds keep slim Premier League title hopes alive
Diogo Jota scored twice as Liverpool cut the deficit on Premier League leaders Manchester City to nine points with a dominant performance against Leicester at Anfield.
Jurgen Klopp's side had a host of chances and reliable Portuguese forward Jota netted in each half, pouncing on Kasper Schmeichel's parry from Virgil van Dijk's header for the first, before stroking a second late on.
The Reds still have a game in hand on champions City and another commanding display suggests the title race may not yet be a foregone conclusion.
Foxes goalkeeper Schmeichel was in inspired form and made crucial saves to twice deny Roberto Firmino and Luis Diaz on his full debut.
Mohamed Salah came off the bench in the second half after returning from Africa Cup of Nations duty and he too was unable to find a way past Schmeichel. When he did, a sublime curling strike rattled the crossbar.
Leicester will rue the missed opportunity from James Maddison at 0-0 as the Englishman found space down the left edge of the area but his rising shot was pushed over the bar by Alisson.
Leicester's poor season sees them stay in 12th place in the table, 10 points adrift of a Europa Conference League spot
Reds show their strength in depthLiverpool's season was going to be derailed once Salah and Sadio Mane went off to the Africa Cup of Nations - well that was the theory anyway. But it has not materialised that way.
Klopp's side are growing in confidence and swatted aside Leicester with ease to stretch their run to just one defeat in their last 19 games in all competitions - ironically a loss at the Foxes on 28 December.
In reaching the Carabao Cup Final, still in both the Champions League and FA Cup, and sitting second in the top flight, Liverpool remain in contention for an unprecedented quadruple of trophies.
And the options available to Klopp now mean an already fearsome attacking line is further bolstered by the arrival of Diaz, who was making his first start for the club.
The former Porto man showed good touches in the final third and was unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet in front of the Kop, seeing a swerving shot and close-range drive batted out by Schmeichel.
If the Colombian needs any inspiration from a new signing at Liverpool, he needs to look no further than Jota, who has now scored 17 goals in all competitions this season.
Arriving from Wolves for a hefty £45m at the start of last season, Jota's goalscoring performances are not only highlighting the depth of the team, but giving Klopp a good headache of who to select in the front three.
Salah was on the bench this time after his run to the Afcon final with Egypt, beaten by team-mate Mane's Senegal on penalties, and introduced in the second half.
On another day he might have had a hat-trick, but a shot at the near post and a one-on-one effort was kept out by the impressive Schmeichel, as well as hitting the woodwork with another classy attempt.
Leicester are enduring a difficult season and were humiliated by Midlands rivals Nottingham Forest on Sunday, as the holders were knocked out of the FA Cup with a 4-1 loss.
After the game, a furious Brendan Rodgers described the performance as "awful" and one that left him "embarrassed", and suggesting "time could be up" for some players in the squad.
Although Thursday's defeat was not another crushing, Leicester were clearly second best throughout the contest and failed to get near the opposition for large periods.
They had just one shot on target, Maddison's early effort, but familiar frailties came to the fore once more as they conceded from a set-piece yet again for Jota's 34th-minute opener.
Including penalties, Leicester have now let in 18 goals from set-pieces this season, while Wolves have conceded just 17 times in the entire campaign.
Leicester's last clean sheet away from home came at Wolves, but that was a year ago.
Following two fifth-placed finishes in the league under Rodgers, a top-half spot might be deemed success this term, while they do still have the opportunity to win silverware in the Europa Conference League.
BBC Sport
Diogo Jota scores twice as Reds keep slim Premier League title hopes alive
Diogo Jota scored twice as Liverpool cut the deficit on Premier League leaders Manchester City to nine points with a dominant performance against Leicester at Anfield.
Jurgen Klopp's side had a host of chances and reliable Portuguese forward Jota netted in each half, pouncing on Kasper Schmeichel's parry from Virgil van Dijk's header for the first, before stroking a second late on.
The Reds still have a game in hand on champions City and another commanding display suggests the title race may not yet be a foregone conclusion.
Foxes goalkeeper Schmeichel was in inspired form and made crucial saves to twice deny Roberto Firmino and Luis Diaz on his full debut.
Mohamed Salah came off the bench in the second half after returning from Africa Cup of Nations duty and he too was unable to find a way past Schmeichel. When he did, a sublime curling strike rattled the crossbar.
Leicester will rue the missed opportunity from James Maddison at 0-0 as the Englishman found space down the left edge of the area but his rising shot was pushed over the bar by Alisson.
Leicester's poor season sees them stay in 12th place in the table, 10 points adrift of a Europa Conference League spot
Reds show their strength in depthLiverpool's season was going to be derailed once Salah and Sadio Mane went off to the Africa Cup of Nations - well that was the theory anyway. But it has not materialised that way.
Klopp's side are growing in confidence and swatted aside Leicester with ease to stretch their run to just one defeat in their last 19 games in all competitions - ironically a loss at the Foxes on 28 December.
In reaching the Carabao Cup Final, still in both the Champions League and FA Cup, and sitting second in the top flight, Liverpool remain in contention for an unprecedented quadruple of trophies.
And the options available to Klopp now mean an already fearsome attacking line is further bolstered by the arrival of Diaz, who was making his first start for the club.
The former Porto man showed good touches in the final third and was unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet in front of the Kop, seeing a swerving shot and close-range drive batted out by Schmeichel.
If the Colombian needs any inspiration from a new signing at Liverpool, he needs to look no further than Jota, who has now scored 17 goals in all competitions this season.
Arriving from Wolves for a hefty £45m at the start of last season, Jota's goalscoring performances are not only highlighting the depth of the team, but giving Klopp a good headache of who to select in the front three.
Salah was on the bench this time after his run to the Afcon final with Egypt, beaten by team-mate Mane's Senegal on penalties, and introduced in the second half.
On another day he might have had a hat-trick, but a shot at the near post and a one-on-one effort was kept out by the impressive Schmeichel, as well as hitting the woodwork with another classy attempt.
Leicester are enduring a difficult season and were humiliated by Midlands rivals Nottingham Forest on Sunday, as the holders were knocked out of the FA Cup with a 4-1 loss.
After the game, a furious Brendan Rodgers described the performance as "awful" and one that left him "embarrassed", and suggesting "time could be up" for some players in the squad.
Although Thursday's defeat was not another crushing, Leicester were clearly second best throughout the contest and failed to get near the opposition for large periods.
They had just one shot on target, Maddison's early effort, but familiar frailties came to the fore once more as they conceded from a set-piece yet again for Jota's 34th-minute opener.
Including penalties, Leicester have now let in 18 goals from set-pieces this season, while Wolves have conceded just 17 times in the entire campaign.
Leicester's last clean sheet away from home came at Wolves, but that was a year ago.
Following two fifth-placed finishes in the league under Rodgers, a top-half spot might be deemed success this term, while they do still have the opportunity to win silverware in the Europa Conference League.
BBC Sport
Nottingham Forest 4-1 Leicester City
FA Cup 4th Round
FA Cup holders dumped by inspired East Midlands rivals
Match report as FA Cup holders Leicester suffer 4-1 defeat at Nottingham Forest; Championship side were 3-0 ahead after 32 minutes and will now face Huddersfield in round five; a fan ran onto the field and appeared to throw punches towards Forest players after second goal
FA Cup holders Leicester were dumped out of the competition in the fourth round after being thrashed 4-1 by an inspired Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.
The Championship side were unfazed by the arrival of their Premier League opponents and took the lead after 23 minutes when Philip Zinckernagel turned home from inside the six-yard box after Kienan Davis nodded down Brennan Johnson's floated cross from the right.
Forest fans barely had time to celebrate their side's goal before they were on their feet again just 86 seconds later, with Johnson cleverly slotting through the legs of Danny Ward after Daniel Amartey's dreadful backpass played him in.
During the celebrations, a supporter ran onto the field and appeared to throw punches towards Forest players.
Steve Cooper's side were celebrating again just after the half-hour mark when some dreadful set-piece defending allowed returning captain Joe Worrall to steer a header past Ward and hand Forest a stunning 3-0 lead.
Leicester were handed a lifeline when Kelechi Iheanacho (40) beat Forest goalkeeper Brice Samba - who had rashly raced out of his area - to a James Maddison through ball and rolled the ball into the empty net.
But Brendan Rodgers' side were unable to use that goal to generate any momentum and found themselves 4-1 down after an hour when the impressive Djed Spence cut inside from the right, exchanged passes with Zinckernagel and drilled a finish past the exposed Ward.
That goal ended the game as a contest, and Leicester failed to generate any clear-cut chances during the final 30 minutes as the holders exited the competition with a whimper at the hands of their East Midlands rivals.
Sky Sports
FA Cup 4th Round
FA Cup holders dumped by inspired East Midlands rivals
Match report as FA Cup holders Leicester suffer 4-1 defeat at Nottingham Forest; Championship side were 3-0 ahead after 32 minutes and will now face Huddersfield in round five; a fan ran onto the field and appeared to throw punches towards Forest players after second goal
FA Cup holders Leicester were dumped out of the competition in the fourth round after being thrashed 4-1 by an inspired Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.
The Championship side were unfazed by the arrival of their Premier League opponents and took the lead after 23 minutes when Philip Zinckernagel turned home from inside the six-yard box after Kienan Davis nodded down Brennan Johnson's floated cross from the right.
Forest fans barely had time to celebrate their side's goal before they were on their feet again just 86 seconds later, with Johnson cleverly slotting through the legs of Danny Ward after Daniel Amartey's dreadful backpass played him in.
During the celebrations, a supporter ran onto the field and appeared to throw punches towards Forest players.
Steve Cooper's side were celebrating again just after the half-hour mark when some dreadful set-piece defending allowed returning captain Joe Worrall to steer a header past Ward and hand Forest a stunning 3-0 lead.
Leicester were handed a lifeline when Kelechi Iheanacho (40) beat Forest goalkeeper Brice Samba - who had rashly raced out of his area - to a James Maddison through ball and rolled the ball into the empty net.
But Brendan Rodgers' side were unable to use that goal to generate any momentum and found themselves 4-1 down after an hour when the impressive Djed Spence cut inside from the right, exchanged passes with Zinckernagel and drilled a finish past the exposed Ward.
That goal ended the game as a contest, and Leicester failed to generate any clear-cut chances during the final 30 minutes as the holders exited the competition with a whimper at the hands of their East Midlands rivals.
Sky Sports
Leicester City 1-1 Brighton & Hove Albion
Leicester fail to hold onto their lead for second match running
Substitute Danny Welbeck scored a late equaliser to earn Brighton a battling point against Leicester at the King Power Stadium.
Welbeck beat Kasper Schmeichel with a powerful header from Neal Maupay's cross with eight minutes remaining.
Dan Burn came close to snatching a winner but his towering header was cleared off the line by Youri Tielemans, before Schmeichel made a stunning save to deny Leandro Trossard.
Patson Daka had earlier fired Leicester in front 30 seconds into the second half after goalkeeper Robert Sanchez had parried Harvey Barnes' shot into his path.
Brendan Rodgers struck an upbeat tone in the build-up to this game and said his Leicester players would "get up and fight again" despite the crushing nature of their midweek defeat to Tottenham, which saw them concede two goals in stoppage-time.
However, despite a bright start the Foxes were nervously hanging on in the closing stages, with that Spurs defeat likely fresh in their minds.
In the end they had Schmeichel to thank for preserving a point. The Denmark international made two stunning stops to deny Welbeck and Trossard either side of the equaliser.
The home side had started the brighter and had the best chance of the first half when Barnes seized onto a loose pass and played in Ademola Lookman, who could only side-foot straight at Sanchez.
They caught Brighton cold within seconds of the restart when James Maddison's shot deflected straight to Barnes, whose stabbed effort was then parried into the path of Daka who scored his ninth goal of an impressive first season at the King Power Stadium.
But instead of building on that goal Leicester appeared to retreat in their shell and instead it was Brighton who finished the game well on top.
BBC Sport
Leicester fail to hold onto their lead for second match running
Substitute Danny Welbeck scored a late equaliser to earn Brighton a battling point against Leicester at the King Power Stadium.
Welbeck beat Kasper Schmeichel with a powerful header from Neal Maupay's cross with eight minutes remaining.
Dan Burn came close to snatching a winner but his towering header was cleared off the line by Youri Tielemans, before Schmeichel made a stunning save to deny Leandro Trossard.
Patson Daka had earlier fired Leicester in front 30 seconds into the second half after goalkeeper Robert Sanchez had parried Harvey Barnes' shot into his path.
Brendan Rodgers struck an upbeat tone in the build-up to this game and said his Leicester players would "get up and fight again" despite the crushing nature of their midweek defeat to Tottenham, which saw them concede two goals in stoppage-time.
However, despite a bright start the Foxes were nervously hanging on in the closing stages, with that Spurs defeat likely fresh in their minds.
In the end they had Schmeichel to thank for preserving a point. The Denmark international made two stunning stops to deny Welbeck and Trossard either side of the equaliser.
The home side had started the brighter and had the best chance of the first half when Barnes seized onto a loose pass and played in Ademola Lookman, who could only side-foot straight at Sanchez.
They caught Brighton cold within seconds of the restart when James Maddison's shot deflected straight to Barnes, whose stabbed effort was then parried into the path of Daka who scored his ninth goal of an impressive first season at the King Power Stadium.
But instead of building on that goal Leicester appeared to retreat in their shell and instead it was Brighton who finished the game well on top.
BBC Sport
Leicester City 2-3 Tottenham Hotspur
Steven Bergwijn scores twice in stoppage time in unbelievable Spurs comeback
Steven Bergwijn scored twice in stoppage time for Tottenham to stage one of the craziest comebacks in Premier League history to beat Leicester 3-2.
Leicester looked set for three points with the clock at 95 minutes at 2-1 up but two goals in 80 seconds from the substitute Bergwijn turned the game completely around and left the Foxes in complete shock.
The hosts took the lead against the run of play on 24 minutes when Patson Daka squeezed home a finish beyond Hugo Lloris.
Spurs, who had already had two efforts cleared off the line and saw Harry Kane crash a header against the crossbar, fully deserved their leveller that came on 38 minutes when the England striker danced through the Leicester defence and finished in confident fashion.
Antonio Conte's side registered 27 shots in the match, creating an expected goals figure of 4.49 but Leicester stayed in the contest and hit Spurs with a sucker punch with 14 minutes to go.
Substitute Harvey Barnes made an immediate impact with a cute touch to send James Maddison through on goal and his deflected effort skipped in off the post. The silky Maddison has now racked up 15 goal involvements this season and scored five goals in his last six appearances.
Leicester looked to be strolling to victory but Bergwijn hammered home from close range on 90+5 minutes before scampering through following a fine Kane pass 80 seconds later and finished off the inside of the post.
Sky Sports
Steven Bergwijn scores twice in stoppage time in unbelievable Spurs comeback
Steven Bergwijn scored twice in stoppage time for Tottenham to stage one of the craziest comebacks in Premier League history to beat Leicester 3-2.
Leicester looked set for three points with the clock at 95 minutes at 2-1 up but two goals in 80 seconds from the substitute Bergwijn turned the game completely around and left the Foxes in complete shock.
The hosts took the lead against the run of play on 24 minutes when Patson Daka squeezed home a finish beyond Hugo Lloris.
Spurs, who had already had two efforts cleared off the line and saw Harry Kane crash a header against the crossbar, fully deserved their leveller that came on 38 minutes when the England striker danced through the Leicester defence and finished in confident fashion.
Antonio Conte's side registered 27 shots in the match, creating an expected goals figure of 4.49 but Leicester stayed in the contest and hit Spurs with a sucker punch with 14 minutes to go.
Substitute Harvey Barnes made an immediate impact with a cute touch to send James Maddison through on goal and his deflected effort skipped in off the post. The silky Maddison has now racked up 15 goal involvements this season and scored five goals in his last six appearances.
Leicester looked to be strolling to victory but Bergwijn hammered home from close range on 90+5 minutes before scampering through following a fine Kane pass 80 seconds later and finished off the inside of the post.
Sky Sports
Burnley Fixture Postponed
The Premier League Board have confirmed that Saturday’s Premier League fixture between Leicester City and Burnley has been postponed, following a meeting on Friday morning.
The decision came after Burnley confirmed that it had an insufficient number of first team players available to fulfil the match, with the fixture now to be rearranged for a future date.
The Club regrets the inconvenience this may cause for its supporters.
All previously purchased tickets for the game to remain valid for the new date, which will be confirmed on LCFC.com in due course.
Premier League Postponement Guidance
The Premier League aims to provide as much clarity as possible, but unfortunately postponements sometimes have to be made at short notice, as safety is the priority. Where possible, the Premier League will endeavour to keep supporters updated if games become at risk on a matchday.
The Premier League Board assesses applications to postpone matches on a case-by-case basis, based on existing rules and adapted COVID-19 postponement guidance, implemented in light of the new Omicron variant.
The Premier League Board will assess a number of factors, including the ability of a club to field a team; the status, severity and potential impact of the COVID-19 outbreak at the club; and the ability of the players to safely prepare for and play the match.
The Board must also consider the wider risks to the opposition and other people the club representatives may come into contact with. Click HERE to read more on the Premier League’s match postponement process.
While recognising a number of clubs are experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks, it is the clubs’ and the League’s collective intention to continue the current fixture schedule where safely possible. The health and wellbeing of all concerned remains our priority and the League will continue to monitor and reflect public health guidance, always proceeding with caution.
In light of the recent rise in COVID-19 cases across the country, the Premier League has reintroduced Emergency Measures. These include protocols such as more frequent testing, wearing face coverings while indoors, observing social distancing and limiting treatment time.
LCFC.COM
The Premier League Board have confirmed that Saturday’s Premier League fixture between Leicester City and Burnley has been postponed, following a meeting on Friday morning.
The decision came after Burnley confirmed that it had an insufficient number of first team players available to fulfil the match, with the fixture now to be rearranged for a future date.
The Club regrets the inconvenience this may cause for its supporters.
All previously purchased tickets for the game to remain valid for the new date, which will be confirmed on LCFC.com in due course.
Premier League Postponement Guidance
The Premier League aims to provide as much clarity as possible, but unfortunately postponements sometimes have to be made at short notice, as safety is the priority. Where possible, the Premier League will endeavour to keep supporters updated if games become at risk on a matchday.
The Premier League Board assesses applications to postpone matches on a case-by-case basis, based on existing rules and adapted COVID-19 postponement guidance, implemented in light of the new Omicron variant.
The Premier League Board will assess a number of factors, including the ability of a club to field a team; the status, severity and potential impact of the COVID-19 outbreak at the club; and the ability of the players to safely prepare for and play the match.
The Board must also consider the wider risks to the opposition and other people the club representatives may come into contact with. Click HERE to read more on the Premier League’s match postponement process.
While recognising a number of clubs are experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks, it is the clubs’ and the League’s collective intention to continue the current fixture schedule where safely possible. The health and wellbeing of all concerned remains our priority and the League will continue to monitor and reflect public health guidance, always proceeding with caution.
In light of the recent rise in COVID-19 cases across the country, the Premier League has reintroduced Emergency Measures. These include protocols such as more frequent testing, wearing face coverings while indoors, observing social distancing and limiting treatment time.
LCFC.COM
Filip Benković Leaves Leicester City
Filip Benković has left Leicester City, after the Club and the player mutually agreed to cancel the remaining term of his contract.
Filip, 24, joined the Foxes from Dinamo Zagreb in the summer of 2018 and went on to feature in the Club’s First Team and Development Squad ranks.
His experience was also enriched by spells on loan with Celtic – whom he helped to a domestic treble in 2018/19 – Bristol City, Cardiff City and OH Leuven.
The Club would like to place on record its thanks to Filip for his professionalism and dedication during his time in Leicester – an experience we hope he can build on in during his future career. He begins the next chapter with the very best wishes of everyone at Leicester City.
LCFC.COM
Filip Benković has left Leicester City, after the Club and the player mutually agreed to cancel the remaining term of his contract.
Filip, 24, joined the Foxes from Dinamo Zagreb in the summer of 2018 and went on to feature in the Club’s First Team and Development Squad ranks.
His experience was also enriched by spells on loan with Celtic – whom he helped to a domestic treble in 2018/19 – Bristol City, Cardiff City and OH Leuven.
The Club would like to place on record its thanks to Filip for his professionalism and dedication during his time in Leicester – an experience we hope he can build on in during his future career. He begins the next chapter with the very best wishes of everyone at Leicester City.
LCFC.COM
Everton vs Leicester postponed after Premier League grants visitors' request to rearrange game
Leicester informed the Premier League they would be unable to fulfil Tuesday's fixture at Everton due to a combination of Covid cases, injuries and players being at AFCON; it is the second time the game has been postponed because of Leicester being unable to field a team
Leicester's game at Everton on Tuesday has been postponed after the Premier League granted the visitors' request to rearrange the fixture.
Leicester informed the Premier League they would not have enough available first-team players to fulfil the match due to a combination of Covid cases, injuries and players being away at the Africa Cup of Nations.
It is the second time the fixture has been postponed - it was originally due to take place on December 19, but was moved to January 11 because of Covid cases in Leicester's squad.
A statement from the Premier League read: "The board was able to make its decision in advance of the fixture to give clarity to the affected clubs and their fans.
"We apologise for the inconvenience and disruption caused to supporters who planned on attending and watching the game, and we are aware that postponements will disappoint fans.
"The league aims to provide as much clarity as possible, but unfortunately postponements sometimes have to be made at short notice, as safety is our priority."The board assesses applications to postpone matches on a case-by-case basis, based on existing rules and adapted Covid-19 postponement guidance, implemented in light of the new Omicron variant.
Sky Sports
Leicester informed the Premier League they would be unable to fulfil Tuesday's fixture at Everton due to a combination of Covid cases, injuries and players being at AFCON; it is the second time the game has been postponed because of Leicester being unable to field a team
Leicester's game at Everton on Tuesday has been postponed after the Premier League granted the visitors' request to rearrange the fixture.
Leicester informed the Premier League they would not have enough available first-team players to fulfil the match due to a combination of Covid cases, injuries and players being away at the Africa Cup of Nations.
It is the second time the fixture has been postponed - it was originally due to take place on December 19, but was moved to January 11 because of Covid cases in Leicester's squad.
A statement from the Premier League read: "The board was able to make its decision in advance of the fixture to give clarity to the affected clubs and their fans.
"We apologise for the inconvenience and disruption caused to supporters who planned on attending and watching the game, and we are aware that postponements will disappoint fans.
"The league aims to provide as much clarity as possible, but unfortunately postponements sometimes have to be made at short notice, as safety is our priority."The board assesses applications to postpone matches on a case-by-case basis, based on existing rules and adapted Covid-19 postponement guidance, implemented in light of the new Omicron variant.
Sky Sports
Leicester 4-1 Watford
FA Cup holders Leicester City made an impressive start to their defence of the trophy as the much-changed Foxes swept aside fellow shadow side Watford.
Youri Tielemans - who scored City's winner at Wembley last May - put them ahead from the spot after Francisco Sierralta fouled Jannik Vestergaard.
James Maddison's cool finish doubled the lead but Joao Pedro immediately pulled one back for the Hornets.
However, strikes from Harvey Barnes and Marc Albrighton sealed an emphatic win.
The sides made 16 changes between them - Leicester nine and Watford seven - from their previous Premier League games, with the majority enforced by injury or Africa Cup of Nations duty.
But Leicester's mix of youth and experience proved too much for a Watford side of similar ilk - and not even a floodlight failure that lasted several minutes could knock the hosts out of their stride.
Tielemans was one of only two Foxes players in the starting line-up that began last year's win in the final against Chelsea - Ayoze Perez was the other - in an illustration of the injury and unavailability issues Brendan Rodgers had to deal with.
Hamstring injuries for Jamie Vardy and Jonny Evans are part of a Leicester injury tally that runs into double figures, while Kelechi Iheanacho and Daniel Amartey are at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Nevertheless, the FA Cup holders produced a scintillating display despite fielding a weakened side.
They were given a helping hand by Sierralta's decision to wrestle Vestergaard to the ground from a corner right in front of referee Mike Dean, but once Tielemans stroked home the penalty, they hardly looked back as Ademola Lookman's classy reverse ball put Maddison in to clip home City's second.
Watford, themselves without injured top scorer Emmanuel Dennis and Afcon quartet Imran Louza, Ismaila Sarr, Adam Masina and William Troost-Ekong, briefly threatened to make a game of it when Cucho Hernandez and Ashley Fletcher teed up Pedro to fire beyond Danny Ward.
The visitors were also aggrieved when Dean chose not to brandish a second yellow card to Vontae Daley-Campbell - making only his third Foxes start - when, already on a booking, the 20-year-old clumsily brought down Hernandez.
But the poor form continued for the Hornets - who have lost six straight Premier League games, as well as seven successive visits to Leicester - when Barnes coolly tucked home Lookman's cross and the video assistant referee awarded the goal after the linesman had mistakenly flagged for offside.
Watford could have had a second but for Vestergaard flinging himself to block Pedro's shot on to the underside of the bar and Albrighton then added Leicester's fourth after Bachmann parried from Lookman.
That fourth summed up another disappointing return to the King Power for Claudio Ranieri, whose side also lost there 4-2 in the league in November.
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers told BBC Sport: "I was absolutely thrilled with the performance - we only had eight senior players fit and they all played, and we had 10 academy products in our squad.
"To see them come in and perform against another Premier League club, with that understanding of the game, and what they gave the game, I was absolutely thrilled for them.
"We all want to dream. We dreamt last year and won the trophy. With so many players out, to produce that performance and scoreline, makes me very proud and we're in the hat which is the most important thing."
BBC
FA Cup holders Leicester City made an impressive start to their defence of the trophy as the much-changed Foxes swept aside fellow shadow side Watford.
Youri Tielemans - who scored City's winner at Wembley last May - put them ahead from the spot after Francisco Sierralta fouled Jannik Vestergaard.
James Maddison's cool finish doubled the lead but Joao Pedro immediately pulled one back for the Hornets.
However, strikes from Harvey Barnes and Marc Albrighton sealed an emphatic win.
The sides made 16 changes between them - Leicester nine and Watford seven - from their previous Premier League games, with the majority enforced by injury or Africa Cup of Nations duty.
But Leicester's mix of youth and experience proved too much for a Watford side of similar ilk - and not even a floodlight failure that lasted several minutes could knock the hosts out of their stride.
Tielemans was one of only two Foxes players in the starting line-up that began last year's win in the final against Chelsea - Ayoze Perez was the other - in an illustration of the injury and unavailability issues Brendan Rodgers had to deal with.
Hamstring injuries for Jamie Vardy and Jonny Evans are part of a Leicester injury tally that runs into double figures, while Kelechi Iheanacho and Daniel Amartey are at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Nevertheless, the FA Cup holders produced a scintillating display despite fielding a weakened side.
They were given a helping hand by Sierralta's decision to wrestle Vestergaard to the ground from a corner right in front of referee Mike Dean, but once Tielemans stroked home the penalty, they hardly looked back as Ademola Lookman's classy reverse ball put Maddison in to clip home City's second.
Watford, themselves without injured top scorer Emmanuel Dennis and Afcon quartet Imran Louza, Ismaila Sarr, Adam Masina and William Troost-Ekong, briefly threatened to make a game of it when Cucho Hernandez and Ashley Fletcher teed up Pedro to fire beyond Danny Ward.
The visitors were also aggrieved when Dean chose not to brandish a second yellow card to Vontae Daley-Campbell - making only his third Foxes start - when, already on a booking, the 20-year-old clumsily brought down Hernandez.
But the poor form continued for the Hornets - who have lost six straight Premier League games, as well as seven successive visits to Leicester - when Barnes coolly tucked home Lookman's cross and the video assistant referee awarded the goal after the linesman had mistakenly flagged for offside.
Watford could have had a second but for Vestergaard flinging himself to block Pedro's shot on to the underside of the bar and Albrighton then added Leicester's fourth after Bachmann parried from Lookman.
That fourth summed up another disappointing return to the King Power for Claudio Ranieri, whose side also lost there 4-2 in the league in November.
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers told BBC Sport: "I was absolutely thrilled with the performance - we only had eight senior players fit and they all played, and we had 10 academy products in our squad.
"To see them come in and perform against another Premier League club, with that understanding of the game, and what they gave the game, I was absolutely thrilled for them.
"We all want to dream. We dreamt last year and won the trophy. With so many players out, to produce that performance and scoreline, makes me very proud and we're in the hat which is the most important thing."
BBC
Leicester City v Norwich City Premier League game postponed
Norwich have confirmed their Premier League game at Leicester on Saturday has been postponed.
It follows a number of positive Covid cases as well as injuries within their playing squad.
The Premier League Board said it accepted Norwich's request to postpone the fixture because they did not have enough players to fulfil the game.
Premier League protocols say clubs should play if they have 13 outfield players and a goalkeeper available.
The Canaries, who sit bottom of the Premier League table, apologised for any inconvenience caused to Leicester and both sets of supporters.
It is the second game Norwich have had called off this season after their trip to West Ham on 18 December was postponed, while it is the third top-flight game Leicester have had cancelled.
The fixture is the first top-flight match to be postponed in January 2022 - after 16 Premier League games in December.
But there are a further eight games postponed in the EFL over the new year period - with the league deciding to remove the need for Covid-19 testing of players and staff on matchdays in an effort to prevent late decisions impacting fans' travel.
Both the Premier League and EFL clubs recently chose to fulfil festive fixtures despite ongoing Covid-19 disruption, including a series of postponements and a record 103 Premier League players and staff testing positive for Covid in the seven days up to and including 26 December.
In Scotland, the SPFL has defended its Covid postponement policy, arguing it must be applied consistently to protect "the integrity of the league" and ensure the season can be completed. There have been 10 games postponed so far because of Covid.
The Scottish Premiership winter break began after Sunday's games, having been brought forward from 4 January because of crowds being capped at 500 amid a surge in Covid cases. The three lower leagues are continuing as scheduled.
BBC
Norwich have confirmed their Premier League game at Leicester on Saturday has been postponed.
It follows a number of positive Covid cases as well as injuries within their playing squad.
The Premier League Board said it accepted Norwich's request to postpone the fixture because they did not have enough players to fulfil the game.
Premier League protocols say clubs should play if they have 13 outfield players and a goalkeeper available.
The Canaries, who sit bottom of the Premier League table, apologised for any inconvenience caused to Leicester and both sets of supporters.
It is the second game Norwich have had called off this season after their trip to West Ham on 18 December was postponed, while it is the third top-flight game Leicester have had cancelled.
The fixture is the first top-flight match to be postponed in January 2022 - after 16 Premier League games in December.
But there are a further eight games postponed in the EFL over the new year period - with the league deciding to remove the need for Covid-19 testing of players and staff on matchdays in an effort to prevent late decisions impacting fans' travel.
Both the Premier League and EFL clubs recently chose to fulfil festive fixtures despite ongoing Covid-19 disruption, including a series of postponements and a record 103 Premier League players and staff testing positive for Covid in the seven days up to and including 26 December.
In Scotland, the SPFL has defended its Covid postponement policy, arguing it must be applied consistently to protect "the integrity of the league" and ensure the season can be completed. There have been 10 games postponed so far because of Covid.
The Scottish Premiership winter break began after Sunday's games, having been brought forward from 4 January because of crowds being capped at 500 amid a surge in Covid cases. The three lower leagues are continuing as scheduled.
BBC
Leicester 1-0 Liverpool
Ademola Lookman scored the only goal as Leicester beat Liverpool to leave the Reds six points off the top of the Premier League table.
Liverpool's biggest chances came in the first half when Mohamed Salah had a 15th-minute penalty saved by Kasper Schmeichel and headed the rebound off the bar.
Sadio Mane then missed a couple of opportunities for Jurgen Klopp's side before they were made to pay by the hosts in the 59th minute.
Former Everton forward Lookman, with only his fourth touch after coming on, took Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall's pass in his stride, beat Joel Matip and rifled a shot past Alisson - Leicester's only shot on target.
Leicester, missing several first-team players, hung on despite relentless late Liverpool pressure - just six days after blowing a 3-1 lead to lose on penalties against the same opposition in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.
With only their second defeat of the season, Liverpool are now six points behind leaders Manchester City, while Leicester - who have won just two games out of seven - move up to ninth.
The Reds could also end 2021 in third place and nine points off top spot if Pep Guardiola's City beat Brentford, and Chelsea at least draw with Brighton, on Wednesday.
Goals seemed to be practically guaranteed in this one. Liverpool had scored a club record 50 in their opening 18 league games.
Leicester had netted 12 and let in another dozen in their last four games, including the 3-3 cup draw at Anfield and a 6-3 defeat by Manchester City on Boxing Day.
Injury problems for the Foxes meant Wilfred Ndidi returned from a hamstring problem to start at centre-back.
He fouled Salah for the penalty which everybody expected to produce the opener.
But Schmeichel guessed right as the Reds failed from the spot for the first time in the Premier League in more than four years.
Salah should also have netted the rebound too with Schmeichel on the ground, but his looping header in front of an empty net hit the crossbar.
That means he ends 2021 on 24 Premier League goals and 11 assists.
The Reds had a host of half-chances, with Jordan Henderson half-volleying off target on three occasions in the opening period.
Schmeichel then did well to keep out Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's overhit cross and Salah's first-time effort - with Mane missing a couple of good chances too.
Vardy caused the visitors problems - but substitute Lookman's goal three minutes after coming on was their only shot on target.
In their thrilling cup clash, Liverpool came from two goals down to break the Foxes' hearts with a 95th-minute equaliser, but this time the hosts held their nerve.
Liverpool kept pushing until the end with Diogo Jota heading wide and Schmeichel saving a Virgil van Dijk shot with his feet.
This was their first league game without scoring in 29 outings and makes Sunday's trip to Chelsea - the last before Salah, Mane and Naby Keita go to the Africa Cup of Nations - almost a must-win meeting.
BBC Sport
Ademola Lookman scored the only goal as Leicester beat Liverpool to leave the Reds six points off the top of the Premier League table.
Liverpool's biggest chances came in the first half when Mohamed Salah had a 15th-minute penalty saved by Kasper Schmeichel and headed the rebound off the bar.
Sadio Mane then missed a couple of opportunities for Jurgen Klopp's side before they were made to pay by the hosts in the 59th minute.
Former Everton forward Lookman, with only his fourth touch after coming on, took Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall's pass in his stride, beat Joel Matip and rifled a shot past Alisson - Leicester's only shot on target.
Leicester, missing several first-team players, hung on despite relentless late Liverpool pressure - just six days after blowing a 3-1 lead to lose on penalties against the same opposition in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.
With only their second defeat of the season, Liverpool are now six points behind leaders Manchester City, while Leicester - who have won just two games out of seven - move up to ninth.
The Reds could also end 2021 in third place and nine points off top spot if Pep Guardiola's City beat Brentford, and Chelsea at least draw with Brighton, on Wednesday.
Goals seemed to be practically guaranteed in this one. Liverpool had scored a club record 50 in their opening 18 league games.
Leicester had netted 12 and let in another dozen in their last four games, including the 3-3 cup draw at Anfield and a 6-3 defeat by Manchester City on Boxing Day.
Injury problems for the Foxes meant Wilfred Ndidi returned from a hamstring problem to start at centre-back.
He fouled Salah for the penalty which everybody expected to produce the opener.
But Schmeichel guessed right as the Reds failed from the spot for the first time in the Premier League in more than four years.
Salah should also have netted the rebound too with Schmeichel on the ground, but his looping header in front of an empty net hit the crossbar.
That means he ends 2021 on 24 Premier League goals and 11 assists.
The Reds had a host of half-chances, with Jordan Henderson half-volleying off target on three occasions in the opening period.
Schmeichel then did well to keep out Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's overhit cross and Salah's first-time effort - with Mane missing a couple of good chances too.
Vardy caused the visitors problems - but substitute Lookman's goal three minutes after coming on was their only shot on target.
In their thrilling cup clash, Liverpool came from two goals down to break the Foxes' hearts with a 95th-minute equaliser, but this time the hosts held their nerve.
Liverpool kept pushing until the end with Diogo Jota heading wide and Schmeichel saving a Virgil van Dijk shot with his feet.
This was their first league game without scoring in 29 outings and makes Sunday's trip to Chelsea - the last before Salah, Mane and Naby Keita go to the Africa Cup of Nations - almost a must-win meeting.
BBC Sport
Manchester City 6-3 Leicester
NINE-goal Boxing Day epic at the Etihad as Foxes come back from 4-0 down to 4-3, before Laporte and Sterling strikes send Pep Guardiola's champions six points clear
Briefly here at the Etihad Stadium, Leicester City threatened to conjure up something truly astonishing. Trailing by four at half-time, Leicester scored three times in eleven second half minutes. With almost half an hour to go, they trailed by just one.
But this isn’t a Manchester City team that believes in fairy stories. Three minutes later they scored their fifth goal and, before the end, their sixth. City have now scored 17 goals in their last three Premier League games and by full-time the realities of life in the Premier League had bitten Leicester hard.
City manager Pep Guardiola has spoken passionately recently about the excessive demands he believes are placed on modern players but deep down he knows what we all know. City have the deepest squad in the land and if anyone can cope with the demands created by the current Covid-19 landscape they can.
Here, despite Leicester’s remarkable efforts early in the second half, was the evidence.
The truth is that City would have beaten any team Leicester fielded here. In possession the champions were razor sharp. What a joy to watch them when they move the ball as quickly and as intelligently as this and when they play with such hunger and desire.
But it is also true that City’s task here was made easier by the way that injuries have decimated Leicester’s squad. Already missing key players this winter, last Wednesday’s Carabao Cup defeat at Liverpool cost them three more, one of them Jamie Vardy.
When that happens to a team like City, it hurts but they can cope. They almost have two teams. When it happens to a club like Leicester, it changes everything and here, in part, was proof.
City were superb during an opening half hour that effectively won them the game. From the very first moments, Guardiola’s players were smothering their opponents’ penalty area like as huge sky blue blanket. It was clear from then that this was a day when they would not be denied. Guardiola said last Thursday that players in England may consider going on strike in order to force the football fixture planners to think seriously about the way the season is currently set-up. At times this looked like a reply from his team. Let us play.
City were pushing at an open door, however. Leicester did not seem to have the legs for the job. Nobody takes anything from a visit to City without running further and harder than they have before and on this occasion they were not up to it. Tomorrow night Rodgers’ players host Liverpool at the King Power and it is hard not to fear for them.
City, on the other hand, are at Brentford on Wednesday and Arsenal on Saturday. If they do not take maximum points from those games it will be a surprise and with Chelsea and Liverpool playing each other in London on Sunday, City’s lead at the top of the Premier League could look rather ominous a week from today.
Crucially, City will be able to gently rotate players through the next seven days. Nothing dramatic but just enough to retain some semblance of freshness. On the bench for this game, Jack Grealish and Phil Foden were joined by Gabriel Jesus and Nathan Ake. For Guardiola, the options are there.
The Spaniard will have loved what he saw here, in the first half at least. In the second period, not so much. City’s use of the ball – their players’ awareness of space, angles and options – was superb. Raheem Sterling was probably the pick of the creative players but Bernardo Silva, Ilkay Gundogan, Kevin de Bruyne and Riyah Mahrez were all operating at a similarly exalted level. At one stage, just after City had scored their fourth goal in the 24th minute, City had recorded an astonishing 15 goals in their previous 196 minutes of league football.
The first of this prime collection arrived in only the fifth minute and, as strange as it sounds, it had already been coming. City spent almost the entire opening passages in Leicester territory and bamboozled their opponents with an exchange of passes from deep that saw De Bruyne pull down a lofted all from Fernandinho inside the penalty area. Leicester had players in the vicinity but none were able to get close enough and, with central defender Jan Vestergaard particularly disorientated, De Bruyne had the time to steady himself and score left footed from 14 yards.
Already it seemed a long way back for Leicester and by the time the first half was properly underway, the game was largely done and dusted.
City’s second and fourth goals were penalties, both conceded by the Belgian Youri Tielemans. The first was awarded after a VAR check for a tug at a corner on Aymeric Laporte and was despatched by Mahrez. The second was for a trip on Sterling and the England player tucked that one away himself.
In between those, in the 21st minute, was a super team goal. Silva had the patience and confidence to hold possession on the right until the correct pass was on and when he shifted it to De Bruyne a first time pass released Joao Cancelo in to space. The low cross was palmed out by Kasper Schmeichel but fell straight to Gundogan who smashed the loose ball in to the net.
Rodgers looked exasperated on the touchline and understandably so. Had Schmeichel not interfered with the cross then a defender standing behind him would have cleared the ball. Equally, both penalties were cheap.
But City’s dominance was such that had they not scored that way they would have done in so in other ways. Sterling, for example, was denied by Schmeichel after a breathtaking volleyed pass from Silva while Mahrez missed a good chance.
James Maddison had forced City goalkeeper Ederson to push a free-kick on to the bar with the score at 2-0 and actually broke away to score after Laporte slipped in the 54th minute. It was this moment that triggered an astonishing eleven minutes that very briefly threatened to change everything.
Had Laporte not slipped then it is almost certain that the game would have meandered to a conclusion. Rodgers had changed to a three-man defence at half-time but the pattern of the game had not greatly shifted.
But when Maddison broke again four minutes later to play in Ademola Lookman for Leicester’s second, something stirred inside the visitors’ hearts. At this point a genuine come back still felt unlikely but nobody had told Maddison. His shot from 25 yards in the 65th minute could only be pushed upwards by Ederson and when the ball dropped to earth, Kelechi Iheanacho turned to score from close in.
Now, suddenly, something special did feel possible. What a story that could have been. But the truth is that when City needed another gear, a response, they found it easily. Laporte atoned in part for his earlier error by heading in from a corner in the 68th minute and then Sterling scored from another set piece right at the end.
At the flick of an invisible switch, City had reverted from conceding bad goals to once again scoring easy ones. Tired? There is not a single sign of it.
Daily Mail
NINE-goal Boxing Day epic at the Etihad as Foxes come back from 4-0 down to 4-3, before Laporte and Sterling strikes send Pep Guardiola's champions six points clear
Briefly here at the Etihad Stadium, Leicester City threatened to conjure up something truly astonishing. Trailing by four at half-time, Leicester scored three times in eleven second half minutes. With almost half an hour to go, they trailed by just one.
But this isn’t a Manchester City team that believes in fairy stories. Three minutes later they scored their fifth goal and, before the end, their sixth. City have now scored 17 goals in their last three Premier League games and by full-time the realities of life in the Premier League had bitten Leicester hard.
City manager Pep Guardiola has spoken passionately recently about the excessive demands he believes are placed on modern players but deep down he knows what we all know. City have the deepest squad in the land and if anyone can cope with the demands created by the current Covid-19 landscape they can.
Here, despite Leicester’s remarkable efforts early in the second half, was the evidence.
The truth is that City would have beaten any team Leicester fielded here. In possession the champions were razor sharp. What a joy to watch them when they move the ball as quickly and as intelligently as this and when they play with such hunger and desire.
But it is also true that City’s task here was made easier by the way that injuries have decimated Leicester’s squad. Already missing key players this winter, last Wednesday’s Carabao Cup defeat at Liverpool cost them three more, one of them Jamie Vardy.
When that happens to a team like City, it hurts but they can cope. They almost have two teams. When it happens to a club like Leicester, it changes everything and here, in part, was proof.
City were superb during an opening half hour that effectively won them the game. From the very first moments, Guardiola’s players were smothering their opponents’ penalty area like as huge sky blue blanket. It was clear from then that this was a day when they would not be denied. Guardiola said last Thursday that players in England may consider going on strike in order to force the football fixture planners to think seriously about the way the season is currently set-up. At times this looked like a reply from his team. Let us play.
City were pushing at an open door, however. Leicester did not seem to have the legs for the job. Nobody takes anything from a visit to City without running further and harder than they have before and on this occasion they were not up to it. Tomorrow night Rodgers’ players host Liverpool at the King Power and it is hard not to fear for them.
City, on the other hand, are at Brentford on Wednesday and Arsenal on Saturday. If they do not take maximum points from those games it will be a surprise and with Chelsea and Liverpool playing each other in London on Sunday, City’s lead at the top of the Premier League could look rather ominous a week from today.
Crucially, City will be able to gently rotate players through the next seven days. Nothing dramatic but just enough to retain some semblance of freshness. On the bench for this game, Jack Grealish and Phil Foden were joined by Gabriel Jesus and Nathan Ake. For Guardiola, the options are there.
The Spaniard will have loved what he saw here, in the first half at least. In the second period, not so much. City’s use of the ball – their players’ awareness of space, angles and options – was superb. Raheem Sterling was probably the pick of the creative players but Bernardo Silva, Ilkay Gundogan, Kevin de Bruyne and Riyah Mahrez were all operating at a similarly exalted level. At one stage, just after City had scored their fourth goal in the 24th minute, City had recorded an astonishing 15 goals in their previous 196 minutes of league football.
The first of this prime collection arrived in only the fifth minute and, as strange as it sounds, it had already been coming. City spent almost the entire opening passages in Leicester territory and bamboozled their opponents with an exchange of passes from deep that saw De Bruyne pull down a lofted all from Fernandinho inside the penalty area. Leicester had players in the vicinity but none were able to get close enough and, with central defender Jan Vestergaard particularly disorientated, De Bruyne had the time to steady himself and score left footed from 14 yards.
Already it seemed a long way back for Leicester and by the time the first half was properly underway, the game was largely done and dusted.
City’s second and fourth goals were penalties, both conceded by the Belgian Youri Tielemans. The first was awarded after a VAR check for a tug at a corner on Aymeric Laporte and was despatched by Mahrez. The second was for a trip on Sterling and the England player tucked that one away himself.
In between those, in the 21st minute, was a super team goal. Silva had the patience and confidence to hold possession on the right until the correct pass was on and when he shifted it to De Bruyne a first time pass released Joao Cancelo in to space. The low cross was palmed out by Kasper Schmeichel but fell straight to Gundogan who smashed the loose ball in to the net.
Rodgers looked exasperated on the touchline and understandably so. Had Schmeichel not interfered with the cross then a defender standing behind him would have cleared the ball. Equally, both penalties were cheap.
But City’s dominance was such that had they not scored that way they would have done in so in other ways. Sterling, for example, was denied by Schmeichel after a breathtaking volleyed pass from Silva while Mahrez missed a good chance.
James Maddison had forced City goalkeeper Ederson to push a free-kick on to the bar with the score at 2-0 and actually broke away to score after Laporte slipped in the 54th minute. It was this moment that triggered an astonishing eleven minutes that very briefly threatened to change everything.
Had Laporte not slipped then it is almost certain that the game would have meandered to a conclusion. Rodgers had changed to a three-man defence at half-time but the pattern of the game had not greatly shifted.
But when Maddison broke again four minutes later to play in Ademola Lookman for Leicester’s second, something stirred inside the visitors’ hearts. At this point a genuine come back still felt unlikely but nobody had told Maddison. His shot from 25 yards in the 65th minute could only be pushed upwards by Ederson and when the ball dropped to earth, Kelechi Iheanacho turned to score from close in.
Now, suddenly, something special did feel possible. What a story that could have been. But the truth is that when City needed another gear, a response, they found it easily. Laporte atoned in part for his earlier error by heading in from a corner in the 68th minute and then Sterling scored from another set piece right at the end.
At the flick of an invisible switch, City had reverted from conceding bad goals to once again scoring easy ones. Tired? There is not a single sign of it.
Daily Mail
Liverpool beat Leicester on penalties to win Carabao Cup ¼ Final
Liverpool mounted a stunning last-minute comeback before beating Leicester on penalties after a 3-3 draw to reach the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup at Anfield.
The Reds, with 10 changes from the side which drew at Tottenham on Sunday, were cut apart at will before half-time with Jamie Vardy on target twice in four minutes (9, 13) and denied a hat-trick by the width of the post.
An Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain strike kept Liverpool in the game early on (19) before James Maddison's 25-yard stunner restored the Foxes' two-goal advantage (33).
Three half-time changes turned the balance of the game in the hosts' favour with Diogo Jota, James Milner and Ibrahima Konate introduced, and midway through the second period Jota's smart finish gave the Reds hope from Takumi Minamino's perfect tee-up.
Another 20 minutes of incessant Liverpool pressure appeared insufficient to keep their cup dream alive - until Minamino pulled them level in the fifth minute of second-half stoppage time to take the tie to penalties.
Image:Takumi Minamino is the first Liverpool player to score in three successive League Cup games since Vladimir Smicer in 2003After six perfect spot-kicks, Luke Thomas' tame effort was kept out by Caoimhin Kelleher, but with the chance to send the Reds through Minamino blasted the hosts' fifth penalty against the bar.
After Kelleher again leapt to deny Ryan Bertrand, Jota made no mistake in sudden death, sending Liverpool into the last four to face Arsenal and leaving Leicester to ponder how victory slipped from their grasp.
Despite a young Liverpool side, including Tyler Morton, Neco Williams, Billy Koumetio and Conor Bradley, looking comfortable early on, the hosts found themselves 2-0 down in the blink of an eye with a pair of goals which owed something to youthful naivety.
First, Koumetio left Vardy space on the right of the box to fire in from a narrow angle past Kelleher's despairing dive, then Bradley was caught up the pitch as Leicester countered down the left, with Thomas' ball finding Patson Daka, whose cross was buried by the veteran forward.
A breathless opening continued as Oxlade-Chamberlain buried Roberto Firmino's clever lay-off, but the hopes of a recovery took a dent when Maddison fired a wonderful 25-yard effort into the top of the net which was past Kelleher before he had time to react.
Moments later Vardy could have put the result beyond doubt from a Leicester counter following a poor Joe Gomez pass into midfield, but he struck the base of the far post with Kelleher again beaten.
Image:Leicester top scorer Jamie Vardy added another double to his collection at AnfieldJurgen Klopp's half-time trio of changes had the desired effect from the restart as Liverpool upped the tempo and, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall's 20-yard curler aside, were untroubled at the back after the break.
It took 22 minutes for them to find a way back into the match when Minamino turned Wilfred Ndidi and found Jota to fire past Kasper Schmeichel from just inside the area, and though the pressure continued, it appeared any hope of a leveller may be beyond the hosts.
That was until the fifth of six minutes of second-half injury-time - when Ndidi allowed Milner's ball to bounce over him and reach Minamino, who controlled it well before his composed finish sent the tie to penalties.
Thomas' poor spot-kick appeared to be the moment which would finally seal the turnaround in Liverpool's favour when Kelleher dived to deny him, but Minamino then shot against the woodwork from 12 yards to deny himself the plaudits for the second time on the night.
Bertrand gave Liverpool a second chance to seal their progression with another poor penalty and this time Jota took full advantage, burying the ball in the far corner to set up a semi-final date with Arsenal in the new year.
Sky Sports
Liverpool mounted a stunning last-minute comeback before beating Leicester on penalties after a 3-3 draw to reach the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup at Anfield.
The Reds, with 10 changes from the side which drew at Tottenham on Sunday, were cut apart at will before half-time with Jamie Vardy on target twice in four minutes (9, 13) and denied a hat-trick by the width of the post.
An Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain strike kept Liverpool in the game early on (19) before James Maddison's 25-yard stunner restored the Foxes' two-goal advantage (33).
Three half-time changes turned the balance of the game in the hosts' favour with Diogo Jota, James Milner and Ibrahima Konate introduced, and midway through the second period Jota's smart finish gave the Reds hope from Takumi Minamino's perfect tee-up.
Another 20 minutes of incessant Liverpool pressure appeared insufficient to keep their cup dream alive - until Minamino pulled them level in the fifth minute of second-half stoppage time to take the tie to penalties.
Image:Takumi Minamino is the first Liverpool player to score in three successive League Cup games since Vladimir Smicer in 2003After six perfect spot-kicks, Luke Thomas' tame effort was kept out by Caoimhin Kelleher, but with the chance to send the Reds through Minamino blasted the hosts' fifth penalty against the bar.
After Kelleher again leapt to deny Ryan Bertrand, Jota made no mistake in sudden death, sending Liverpool into the last four to face Arsenal and leaving Leicester to ponder how victory slipped from their grasp.
Despite a young Liverpool side, including Tyler Morton, Neco Williams, Billy Koumetio and Conor Bradley, looking comfortable early on, the hosts found themselves 2-0 down in the blink of an eye with a pair of goals which owed something to youthful naivety.
First, Koumetio left Vardy space on the right of the box to fire in from a narrow angle past Kelleher's despairing dive, then Bradley was caught up the pitch as Leicester countered down the left, with Thomas' ball finding Patson Daka, whose cross was buried by the veteran forward.
A breathless opening continued as Oxlade-Chamberlain buried Roberto Firmino's clever lay-off, but the hopes of a recovery took a dent when Maddison fired a wonderful 25-yard effort into the top of the net which was past Kelleher before he had time to react.
Moments later Vardy could have put the result beyond doubt from a Leicester counter following a poor Joe Gomez pass into midfield, but he struck the base of the far post with Kelleher again beaten.
Image:Leicester top scorer Jamie Vardy added another double to his collection at AnfieldJurgen Klopp's half-time trio of changes had the desired effect from the restart as Liverpool upped the tempo and, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall's 20-yard curler aside, were untroubled at the back after the break.
It took 22 minutes for them to find a way back into the match when Minamino turned Wilfred Ndidi and found Jota to fire past Kasper Schmeichel from just inside the area, and though the pressure continued, it appeared any hope of a leveller may be beyond the hosts.
That was until the fifth of six minutes of second-half injury-time - when Ndidi allowed Milner's ball to bounce over him and reach Minamino, who controlled it well before his composed finish sent the tie to penalties.
Thomas' poor spot-kick appeared to be the moment which would finally seal the turnaround in Liverpool's favour when Kelleher dived to deny him, but Minamino then shot against the woodwork from 12 yards to deny himself the plaudits for the second time on the night.
Bertrand gave Liverpool a second chance to seal their progression with another poor penalty and this time Jota took full advantage, burying the ball in the far corner to set up a semi-final date with Arsenal in the new year.
Sky Sports
Premier League: Clubs to fulfil fixture list despite Covid-19 disruption
Premier League clubs have chosen to fulfil festive fixtures despite ongoing disruption caused by Covid-19 cases.
The league's 20 clubs met on Monday to discuss how they could deal with the challenges faced after six fixtures were postponed because of Covid-19 numbers over the weekend
The postponement of a round of games over Christmas was a possibility.
No vote took place and so two rounds of fixtures are in place across five days from 26 December.
It had been expected that game week 20, starting on 28 December, would be postponed in order to ease the pressure on Premier League squads.
Instead, clubs have been advised if they have 13 fit players, plus a goalkeeper, they should fulfil their games.
There are however talks between clubs and authorities to scrap FA Cup replays in rounds three and four, and to reduce EFL Cup semi-final ties to one-leg matches.
Last week, Premier League players returned 42 positive Covid-19 tests in a seven-day period, the highest number since the start of the pandemic. Updated figures for the most recent seven-day period are expected later on Monday.
In Sunday's Premier League fixtures, Chelsea named just six substitutes for their draw at Wolves and Liverpool drew at Tottenham without a number of first-team names.
Five of Saturday's six fixtures were called off. Chelsea tried to get Sunday's fixture at Wolves postponed and boss Thomas Tuchel said his players were put at "huge risk... not just because of Covid but also physically".
It is understood Liverpool were among a group of clubs who pushed for the postponement of game week 20.
After Sunday's draw at Spurs, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said playing on 26 and 28 December was not feasible.
"It's impossible, we don't have the players," Klopp said. "We have to think we will get an extra case or two. We cannot just push it all through. The 26th and 28th, that's not possible. We would prefer to play but we need help with the fixtures."
The seven Premier League teams still in the Carabao Cup face ties on 21 and 22 December and will play three Premier League fixtures between then and 2 January.
BBC
Premier League clubs have chosen to fulfil festive fixtures despite ongoing disruption caused by Covid-19 cases.
The league's 20 clubs met on Monday to discuss how they could deal with the challenges faced after six fixtures were postponed because of Covid-19 numbers over the weekend
The postponement of a round of games over Christmas was a possibility.
No vote took place and so two rounds of fixtures are in place across five days from 26 December.
It had been expected that game week 20, starting on 28 December, would be postponed in order to ease the pressure on Premier League squads.
Instead, clubs have been advised if they have 13 fit players, plus a goalkeeper, they should fulfil their games.
There are however talks between clubs and authorities to scrap FA Cup replays in rounds three and four, and to reduce EFL Cup semi-final ties to one-leg matches.
Last week, Premier League players returned 42 positive Covid-19 tests in a seven-day period, the highest number since the start of the pandemic. Updated figures for the most recent seven-day period are expected later on Monday.
In Sunday's Premier League fixtures, Chelsea named just six substitutes for their draw at Wolves and Liverpool drew at Tottenham without a number of first-team names.
Five of Saturday's six fixtures were called off. Chelsea tried to get Sunday's fixture at Wolves postponed and boss Thomas Tuchel said his players were put at "huge risk... not just because of Covid but also physically".
It is understood Liverpool were among a group of clubs who pushed for the postponement of game week 20.
After Sunday's draw at Spurs, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said playing on 26 and 28 December was not feasible.
"It's impossible, we don't have the players," Klopp said. "We have to think we will get an extra case or two. We cannot just push it all through. The 26th and 28th, that's not possible. We would prefer to play but we need help with the fixtures."
The seven Premier League teams still in the Carabao Cup face ties on 21 and 22 December and will play three Premier League fixtures between then and 2 January.
BBC
Leicester City handed Europa Conference League boost after UEFA ruling
Leicester City are among the favourites to win the competition after being knocked out of the UEFA Europa League
Leicester City are the only English team left in the UEFA Conference League.
It comes after Tottenham Hotspur were expelled from the competition by UEFA.
Having had their Conference League match against Rennes postponed due to a COVID-19 outbreak, Tottenham were looking for options to get the match played.
They tried to push for their Premier League match against Leicester last Thursday to be postponed so they could place against Rennes that day instead.
That attempt was blocked by the Premier League, though the Leicester match was eventually postponed on the day of the match.
UEFA have now ruled that Tottenham "forfeited" their match against Rennes and the French side have been handed a 3-0 victory.
It now means Tottenham are out of the competition, though they are "considering their response to the decision, according to our sister title football.london.
Leicester will be boosted by the outcome as the two clubs were favourites to win the competition.
UEFA's statement on the matter reads: "Following several positive cases of COVID-19 that were identified from players and staff of Tottenham Hotspur FC, the 2021/22 UEFA Europa Conference League group stage match between Tottenham Hotspur FC and Stade Rennais FC - scheduled to be played on 9 December 2021 in London, United Kingdom – could not be played.
"The matter was submitted to the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body, for a decision to be taken in accordance with Annex J of the Regulations of the UEFA Europa Conference League (2021/22 Season). Based on the Article 30 (4) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations and given the urgent circumstances of the matter, the ad-hoc chairman of the Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body referred the case to the Appeals Body.
"The Chairman of the UEFA Appeals Body took the following decision: To declare the 2021/22 UEFA Europa Conference League group stage match between Tottenham Hotspur FC and Stade Rennais FC, that was initially scheduled to be played on 9 December 2021, as forfeited by Tottenham Hotspur FC, who is therefore deemed to have lost the match 0-3 in accordance with Annex J.3.1 to the Regulations of the UEFA Europa Conference League (2021/22 Season)."
Leicester Mercury
Leicester City are among the favourites to win the competition after being knocked out of the UEFA Europa League
Leicester City are the only English team left in the UEFA Conference League.
It comes after Tottenham Hotspur were expelled from the competition by UEFA.
Having had their Conference League match against Rennes postponed due to a COVID-19 outbreak, Tottenham were looking for options to get the match played.
They tried to push for their Premier League match against Leicester last Thursday to be postponed so they could place against Rennes that day instead.
That attempt was blocked by the Premier League, though the Leicester match was eventually postponed on the day of the match.
UEFA have now ruled that Tottenham "forfeited" their match against Rennes and the French side have been handed a 3-0 victory.
It now means Tottenham are out of the competition, though they are "considering their response to the decision, according to our sister title football.london.
Leicester will be boosted by the outcome as the two clubs were favourites to win the competition.
UEFA's statement on the matter reads: "Following several positive cases of COVID-19 that were identified from players and staff of Tottenham Hotspur FC, the 2021/22 UEFA Europa Conference League group stage match between Tottenham Hotspur FC and Stade Rennais FC - scheduled to be played on 9 December 2021 in London, United Kingdom – could not be played.
"The matter was submitted to the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body, for a decision to be taken in accordance with Annex J of the Regulations of the UEFA Europa Conference League (2021/22 Season). Based on the Article 30 (4) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations and given the urgent circumstances of the matter, the ad-hoc chairman of the Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body referred the case to the Appeals Body.
"The Chairman of the UEFA Appeals Body took the following decision: To declare the 2021/22 UEFA Europa Conference League group stage match between Tottenham Hotspur FC and Stade Rennais FC, that was initially scheduled to be played on 9 December 2021, as forfeited by Tottenham Hotspur FC, who is therefore deemed to have lost the match 0-3 in accordance with Annex J.3.1 to the Regulations of the UEFA Europa Conference League (2021/22 Season)."
Leicester Mercury
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