Craig Shakespeare hints at making changes against AFC Bournemouth

Craig Shakespeare has dropped a major hint about Leicester City’s XI tomorrow, saying that a change is all that a side requires at times.

Leicester City face AFC Bournemouth at Dean Court on Saturday, needing all the three points to somewhat get themselves out of their current mess.

The Foxes have lost four of their six fixtures so far, ending up on the wrong side Arsenal (4-3), Manchester United (2-0), Chelsea (1-2) and Liverpool (2-3). Their only win came at the King Power Stadium as they beat Premier League newcomers Brighton and Hove Albion 2-0, while Craig Shakespeare’s men also managed to pick up a point against Huddersfield Town, another newly promoted team.

Sitting right above the relegation zone, it really is time to start doing something about their winless streak. To begin with, Craig Shakespeare can make changes, perhaps? Thankfully, the 53-year old is looking to do just that. He said:

"“You weigh your options up from 1 to 11,” he said.“You don’t shy away from the fact the team sometimes needs to change.“Performances have been okay but sometimes it might be that change that gets you the result that kick-starts you.”"

Next: AFC Bournemouth Vs Leicester City: Foxes look to end win drought

Riyad Mahrez has been among the hottest talking points of late, initially because of the speculation surrounding him and now the poor form that’s concerning the ones around him.

The Algerian has only assisted a couple of goals in six league games, and though those numbers can always go up, his lack of effort in between games has been worrying. As the fans begin to turn on him, the boss feels it’s part and parcel of the game. He didn’t take any name, however.

"“All players are there for criticism when they take to the pitch,” said Shakespeare.“Of course at times it is my job to defend them.“The private chats and the group chats, as a team, they are more important because theplayers are an honest group.“Sometimes that player needs an arm around him.“Sometimes he needs to be shown that he is not working hard, and sometimes there may be off-field factors.“For every player, there are ups and downs of form and injuries, and it is part and parcel of us together dealing with it.”"

There also are a few players waiting eagerly for their chance to start a game. Craig Shakespeare is aware of their frustration, but he wants them to respect their teammates.

"“I think the conversation is the same with everyone who is not in the team because you talk about Kelechi (Iheanacho), but there is also Islam Slimani who cost a lot of money,” said Shakespeare.“As long as players are respectful I will tell them in the right way why they are not in the team. They also have to be respectful of their team-mates over what they bring and are about. We pick the team for the right reasons, to progress and get three points.”"