Leicester have another exciting youngster: assessing Luke Thomas

The former Development Squad defender wasn’t just the supplier for Pérez, Thomas was a key component when Leicester City were rotating the ball early in the play. His interplay with Harvey Barnes created an overload on the right-hand side – by sucking in the Sheffield midfielders.

Eventually, the ball was switched back over to the left and found Thomas. He perfectly weighted a disguised cutback into Pérez, who finished the chance expertly, but I want to highlight how pivotal the disguising of the pass was. By opening his body to facilitate a cross, the aggressive defender and midfielder – Oliver Norwood and John Egan – had to cover options in the penalty area. This gave Ayoze Pérez slightly more time to control the ball and find the finish. If Thomas had just made the cutback, I’m 100% certain that either of Norwood or Egan would have pressed the ball and blocked the shot. It was perfect execution from Thomas.

The assist was an embodiment of his intent, he always looked to make progressive passes in possession. Thomas enables these passes by opening up his body when receiving the ball – it’s a simple, yet highly effective asset to have as it creates a plethora of passing lanes every time you receive the ball. To have this as a youngster is also impressive, it’s quite easy to control the ball negatively – taking the touch back towards your own goal, as this is deemed safer, but Thomas was extremely courageous in possession.