Leicester City managed to seal a draw late on at Emirates Stadium. A wasteful Arsenal side evaporated as the game drew on. Here are 3 things FoL learned.
Some not particularly open minded Arsenal fans on Twitter believed that Leicester City should’ve been beaten comfortable by their side on Tuesday. No surprises there. Yet the game, as football often is, was nuanced throughout. Especially true when two teams battling for more recognition and a renewed shot at the big time meet.
Clearly the Gunners are a significantly larger club with a much bigger global fan base than the Foxes. Although Leicester have arguably been a better run entity in the last half a decade or so. There has been a shortening of the gap between the two. Something easily perceived in the latest encounter.
Leicester City’s confidence must automatically return
As previously stated, Arsenal and Leicester, rated only on personnel and staff, are currently very comparable outfits. Yes, the Londoners have more of a command. But as a commodity or franchise the East Midlanders are growing fast around the world.
This is why Foxes of Leicester want to see confidence and belief become a fluid element of the team’s mentality on-field. Believe in your qualify and talent to capitalize on your opponents’ mistakes with swift ruthlessness. It is distinctly missing from overall Foxes play on occasion – they should be more assured when up against the so-called big six.
Kasper Schmeichel, you beauty
Recently Leicester City’s on-pitch captain Kasper Schmeichel has been performing remarkably well. He’s saved his team-mates further embarrassment than they may have endured at more than one time. Schmeichel is possibly one of the contenders for Player of the Year at this point.
Statistically making six saves at Emirates Stadium is a feat which will likely attain your side at least a draw. The Danish stopper was also named Man of the Match by some outlets, at least from a Leicester perspective. Kieran Tierney played very well for the opposition, while Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang netted their goal.
Demarai Gray’s best role is known
Back to the age old Leicester conundrum: will Demarai Gray ever fulfil his potential? Errm, probably not. Although there may now be a way that Brendan Rodgers can extract the most from his winger – as a super substitute.
According to BBC Sport, the Birmingham-born man has facilitated as a sub more than any other Premier League player since making his debut in 2016. Gray has eight assists in that time; alarm bells will be ringing in the manager’s office as he’ll be well aware of this stat.
Another area worth throwing the wingman into as games dissolve is the striker position. No, he hasn’t always impressed there but targeting that fatigue filled phase before the final whistle is worth a try.
Why and how Leicester City lost their healthy lead on rivals for a top-three Premier League place.
Naturally tiredness and a disorderly, unpolished feel has encapsulated much of Leicester City’s recent performances. FoL have condoned the rather disorganisation due to the fitness and sharpness problems because of the worldwide epidemic of COVID-19.
Despite the suspension of football we understand that footballers still maintain a top level of condition. Clearly this situation with no supporters is not ideal and must be completely alien and surreal to the players. But Leicester must act in their true capacity as deserving Champions League contenders.
If not, the squad will regret it next season. Obviously Europa League qualification would be a great second prize – yet CL it is not. The Foxes’ destiny is still technically in their own hands. Regardless of a resurgent Chelsea who are now ahead. Not to mention the once again mighty Manchester United. It’s going to be the predictable rollercoaster ride!
Bournemouth away is the Foxes‘ next outing as the season enters the business end. The Cherries are searching for points to avoid the dreaded drop down to the Championship. While, as we know, European qualification is still a distinct possibility for the King Power side so both teams will be direct and eager. Which always creates a watchable contest.