Is Demarai Gray now Leicester City’s second choice striker

Again, Puel seems to suggest he is interested in continuing the ‘Gray experiment’ further – albeit, while wanting more consistency and potency from his player. On the subject, the Frenchman says: “I think he [Gray] has all the quality in this position.”

According to the man himself, the Birmingham born footballer can add ruthlessness whilst altering his game to play as a front man:

"“I thought we [he and Maddison] had a lot chemistry up there.” “It’s [playing as striker] something I’ve adapted to well. In training, the manager has been working a lot on me playing centrally and I’ve enjoyed it. It’s nice to score goals, so if I’m asked to play there more often, I’ll be happy. “That’s [ruthlessness] one thing the manager has worked on with me, so if I do go inside on the right and then on the left, the defender isn’t going to know what I’m doing. It paid off and I think stuff like that is what I’ve got to work on – to be more ruthless in front of goal.” – Demarai Gray (Via: LCFC Live)"

If Puel continues with his experiment, it will possibly lengthen the progression of Gray as a possible England senior regular. This is because he is, almost, learning a new style – despite, almost, being close to the finished Premier League article as a winger. Well, his impact, productivity and game time is gradually increasing.

Where does this leave Kelechi Iheanacho?

Evidently, Puel is not completely satisfied with Iheanacho’s Premier League performance so far competitively this campaign, or he would not drop him for an important match. Although, the Nigerian’s cup scoring record is excellent. Maybe he will play in that competition more often – especially the League Cup. In effect, Iheanacho is currently the second choice striker, but Gray was tried for appraisal against Liverpool; contrary to some fans’ wishes.

This writer has seen Gray in three positions: right-wing, left-wing and striker – at international and club level. In conclusion, it seems that Leicester City working on his rawness at left-wing is the correct focus. Improving his strength slightly to complement already rapid pace is essential. If this is achieved, as well as his final ball refining slightly – his assist and goal ratio will increase. Eventually, a call-up and from Gareth Southgate and graduation will occur.