Is Demarai Gray now Leicester City’s second choice striker

Claude Puel is conducting a transition at Leicester City. Within this redevelopment, are smaller experiments – undertaken to decipher a player’s true potential and versatility.

Actually, the transition at the King Power Stadium is more of an overhaul. Boss Claude Puel has the complete backing of the owners of Leicester City football club to evolve the team anyway he sees fit. This includes altering or deciphering a player’s true position. For example: using Demarai Gray as a striker in Jamie Vardy’s absence.

Instinctively Gray is not as cold a customer as Vardy. Nor will he capitalise on as many one-on-ones. The latter has inherent finishing and a clinical edge, which top-level strikers need.

Gray knows this, therefore his approach to transition is wise. He speaks of being increasingly stoney-hearted in front of goal, yet, it is the systematic efficiency which may not develop: it cannot be taught, only honed, which is an issue.

Yet it appears the Young Lion has the ‘je ne sais quoi’, according to England U21 manager Aidy Boothroyd. It has been picked up on early in Gray’s career and a conversion is taking place at international level. His attributes generally fit all required areas. In addition, he was hailed as a shining light in Friday’s U21 England match with Holland. With the FA website stating:

"Gray day It was Demarai Gray, one of the best players on the pitch, who came closest to winning it for England in the 83rd minute. The Leicester City forward had been a real threat throughout the game and when he cut in from the left and placed a shot beyond Biglow, it looked as though the deadlock was broken as the ball arrowed towards goal. But unfortunately, it cannoned down off the underside of the bar and out to safety as England were left to settle for a point before turning their attentions to Tuesday’s trip to Latvia where they will hope for better luck.”"