Leicester 3-0 Palace: The advantages of the 3-4-1-2

Because of the formations composition, the two recognised central midfielders – Ndidi and Tielemans – played relatively deep. This isn’t uncommon for Ndidi, who plays as the sole defensive midfielder in Leicester City’s 4-1-4-1, but Tielemans was playing a deeper position than usual. This was incredibly beneficial to the Belgian, who profits from being able to analyse the game in front of him before picking his pass. His peripheral vision is good, but when you’re playing in an advanced midfield position you need to have exquisite 360-degree vision, such as Maddison, this isn’t Tielemans’ best asset.

As such, the Belgian rekindled the excellent form he showcased at Leicester City, whilst he was on loan last season. For only the third game this season, Ayoze Pérez operated as one of the Foxes central options, however, it’s the first time he’s started as a central attacking midfielder. Aside from his wonderful hat trick at St Mary’s earlier this season, this was arguably the Spaniard’s best performance at the club as well.

His selflessness nature to continually make decoy runs into Crystal Palace’s defensive third, cannot be understated. His movements were an essential component of how Leicester City managed to unlock a resolute defensive structure. His ability to receive the ball in tight spaces, and seemingly always manage to weave his way out of these scenarios is very impressive. He’s a great player to alleviate pressure for the Foxes – even if you play it into him in an unfavourable position, he can make something of it.

It’s no coincidence that when Rodgers employed a two-man striking partnership, Vardy’s 100 club curse was broken – in some style as well. All three of Leicester City’s goals came from the two forwards, but the shear presence of Kelechi Iheanacho was an enabler for Vardy. He’s brilliant at plugging the gap between midfield and attack, which often becomes a problem for the Foxes when progressing play.

All in all, there’s a plethora of positives for Rodgers and Leicester City to take away from the fixture. Next up is Arsenal, at The Emirates. This will pose a completely different threat, maybe a chance to showcase the versatility of the new Foxes formation.