Leicester v Man United preview: FoL’s prediction, starting XI
349 days since Leicester City’s Premier League campaign got underway with a 0-0 draw to Wolves, the 2019/20 season is close to its conclusion.
The Foxes host Manchester United on Sunday evening in the biggest game in the club’s history in the Premier League since the 2-2 draw with Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur in 2016.
It’s simple. If Leicester defeat United tomorrow, they will play in the Champions League. If they lose, they will miss out. A draw could also result in the Champions League qualification for 2020/21 if Chelsea suffer defeat to Wolves at Stamford Bridge.
City shouldn’t really be in this position. At Christmas, Brendan Rodgers’ side had looked like they had secured a top-four finish after their blistering first-half of the season. However, since Christmas, the Foxes have seen their excellent form undone and face settling for a Europa League spot.
Rodgers must tweak his tactics for Sunday. Following last week’s 3-0 defeat to Spurs, the City manager faced criticism for his choice to use three centre-backs against the sizzling counter-attacks from Jose Mourinho’s men.
If the Foxes revert back to their 4-1-4-1 position, their chances of overcoming Ole Gunnar Solksjaer’s lighting front three of Mason Greenwood, Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford. With the centre-back partnership of Wes Morgan and Jonny Evans, Leicester can pack the midfield to attempt to nullify the damage that could potentially come from Bruno Fernandes.
After dropping points in their two previous home games and exiting the FA Cup at the hands of Chelsea, United remain the favourites for the clash at King Power Stadium. This could benefit the Foxes. Their constant drive from being underdogs has always worked in their favour.
My prediction for tomorrow’s game is a 2-2 draw. Despite United’s incredible talent, the prospect of qualifying for Champions League will drive the Foxes. Both teams’ respective form hasn’t been great but the pressure is more on Solskjaer’s side, Leicester have a huge chance here.
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Predicted line-up: Kasper Schmeichel, James Justin, Jonny Evans, Wes Morgan, Luke Thomas, Wilfred Ndidi, Youri Tielemans, Dennis Praet, Ayoze Perez, Harvey Barnes, Jamie Vardy.