Questions arise for Brendan Rodgers after poor Leicester display

Wrong personnel

Harvey Barnes was lacklustre once more, to say the least. Versus Liverpool he truly seemed out of his depth, unfortunately. Although the real question over why Rodgers thought it appropriate to use the 22-year-old, is that he had a knock and had to be substituted early in the previous defeat to Manchester City.

Therefore it may be that Barnes was not naturally fully fit – so should the winger have played or even started, especially when rotation should already be in use? It is arguable that other wingmen are in slightly better form or more experienced to be starting: Demarai Gray, Ayoze Perez or even Marc Albrighton.

Ultimately the decision to begin the former West Bromwich Albion loanee is surprising – at the very least. Despite assisting against Man City with a beautifully weighted through ball – reminiscent of a Maddison key pass to Jamie Vardy – Barnes isn’t involving himself in goals enough. Additional he doesn’t seem committed to some aerial challenges or not forthright in tackles. Which will get athletes injured, too.

Neither is the Young Lion showcasing anything like the form he did for the Baggies; albeit that era was in the Championship. To be perfectly plain, it is unlikely Barnes will start the West Ham United match on Saturday. Or Newcastle United away on New Year’s Day for that matter. Particularly if Gray or Perez does well when incoming.