Leicester City theory: a tweak in attack to create more goals

Whilst consulting the Premier League website, it is clear by the statistics that Leicester City cannot become complacent by the figures, while up until the Burnley shut out – the Foxes were the longest continuous premiership scorers this season. Despite only netting 17 in 12; conceding six.

Team goal totals show eight sides in front of Puel’s – certainly now more cultured – outfit. Whereas, the East Midlands club retain the same position in the highest shots and passes category, seven off the top. While, perusing the goals inside the box grouping: Leicester City only have 13, 16 begin the Citizens, at 11th ranking.

Passing with balance of counter-attacking

Goals for the King Power club are spread around the squad this campaign, which is a great bonus for a side – if their strikers’ productivity is efficient. Nine separate players netted for the King Power team this term. That includes two for defender Harry Maguire; with Ricardo Pereira and defensive-midfielder Wilfred Ndidi adding another.

According to Leicester Mercury, in an article from October – contrary to popular belief, Puel’s side is making more chances for Vardy, and in general. They believe he will reach his previous three totals of 20-plus strikes. And what about the theory that Puel is stifling the former England hitman? Simply not true: Vardy is attempting more shots on average – for October – than even the Premier League title-winning term.

Should Leicester City bring Iborra in to the side? Yes: with Ndidi cleaning up most exceptionally in the DCM role – defensive-central-midfielder – it alleviates the need for a similar player – Papy Mendy.

Giving precedent for two ball playing midfielders, or one, and a No.10. Firstly, a mildly restrained player like Iborra; the other, Maddison, who is free to roam. Think Fernandinho, Silva (David or Bernardo) and De Bruyne. There is a gulf in class between the two rosters, sure, yet, class is abundant in the Foxes’setup – they are more than able to replicate that type of play. In theory.

If aimless crosses are constantly prevalent, then Puel may reinstate loaned target-man, Islam Slimani.

Conclusion

If the opponents’ approach is playing a deep defensive line, Leicester City’s procedure should always be – when not counter-attacking – to play with a particularly high line with ball ownership. Thus, leading to those crucial slotted passes in between centre-backs and fullbacks.

Leicester City play Brighton Hove Albion in the top-flight English division. It is away on November 24, kickoff is 3pm GMT. The interval is due to the dreaded international break.