Leicester City’s ambitions went belly-up as they were outdone by Newcastle United on Saturday. Here are the key takeaways from their 2-1 defeat at the King Power Stadium:
Leicester City’s European dream hanging by a thread
It’s fair to say that the race for seventh spot might be over already, even though Leicester might reduce the current six-point gap to just three with a win next week.
But they’ll still have to go on a decent run of form to keep within touching distance of Sean Dyche’s side, and even that may not guarantee them what they have been after since Claude Puel’s arrival.
A win the other day would have meant that they were well in control of their fate, but that’s not going to be the case anymore. Leicester have it all to do now.
Hamza Choudhury offers ray of hope
There was more fear than optimism when Hamza Choudhury came on for the injured Vicente Iborra, but once the 20-year old got into his stride, there was more of optimism and no fear at all.
Leicester City may have lost the game, but the U-23s captain still had a solid game, doing exactly what we have seen Wilfred Ndidi do with perfection all season.
Speaking after the game, Ben Chilwell was particularly confident about his teammate.
"“He’s a great player,” he said. “He does a good role when Wilf (Wilfred Ndidi) is out of the team in terms of tackling and breaking up the play, it’s what he’s good at. “I’ve played with him a lot of years now and he’s always been good at that. “It’s nice for him to come on and do well personally, so yeah, I think for him personally I’m sure he’ll be happy with how he did.”"
Midfield a serious cause for concern
Matty James ruled out for the season, Wilfred Ndidi suspended, Andy King is out on loan, and now Vicente Iborra is all set to be a regular sighting on the bench for the rest of the season.
As it stands, Claude Puel would simply have to play Hamza Choudhury as his defensive midfielder, as there is no other option in that region of the park.
The young Englishman had a decent game against Newcastle United, but as obsequious as he is with his defensive duties, the Foxes might find it hard to break down a stubborn Burnley next week.
Next: Leicester City’s Vicente Iborra possibly ruled out for the season
Adrien Silva is now required to produce a magical display at Turf Moor next Saturday.