How Leicester could line-up against West Brom in EPL opener

Right-forward- Marc Albrighton

Not everyone’s cup of tea, but Marc Albrighton will wear his heart on his sleeve and put 110% into every game. Sunday won’t be any different. Despite lacking the pace and flair that Demarai Gray and Harvey Barnes possess, Albrighton offers a varied outlet for Rodgers.

A goal in the opening friendly with Birmingham City will fill the former-Aston Villa man with confidence. Gray has failed to prove himself when given a chance from the start and given the opponents, Albrighton’s teasing crosses will be key to Leicester taking the three points home.

Central-midfield- Youri Tielemans

In Belgium’s 2-0 victory against Denmark, Tielemans put in a display that made him a favourite during his loan spell in 2019. Last season, Tielemans was pivotal in the club’s form. When he played well, Leicester played well.

Like Castagne, he has returned injury and Coronavirus free from international duty and will be looking to hit the ground running at the Hawthorns. His key passes and through balls ultimately help Leicester City tick, with his threaded balls producing opportunities for Jamie Vardy.

Central-midfield- Wilfred Ndidi

Returning to the Leicester team last weekend, having Ndidi available will be vital for Rodgers. The anchorman is likely to be the glue between the defence and midfield, sweeping any opponents who break past the middlemen.

Again, like Tielemans, when Ndidi is not playing or playing poorly, the side struggled. His influence is usually not recognised from outsiders, but the midfielder who is well-known for his interceptions will be looking to continue his fine season.

Central-midfield- Dennis Praet

This position was the hardest one. James Maddison would be a usual figure in this position, venturing up the pitch. However, the English midfielder remains out due to injury, so the space is available.

Nempalys Mendy featured in every game throughout pre-season, but with Ndidi back in action, it would be criminal to start two defensive midfielders at a newly-promoted team. So I’m going to go with Dennis Praet.

After a quiet debut season in England, Praet is set for an action-packed season this season with his experience in Europe. Leicester fans will be hoping he can provide more goals and assists this season.

Left-forward- Harvey Barnes

One of Leicester City’s most dangerous player, when he’s up for it. Barnes received criticism last season for his lack of efficiency. With only six goals and eight assists in 36 appearances, Barnes will be hoping to see the numbers increase.

A Premier League player for over a year now, an amazing season could help Barnes’ case for a possible call-up to Gareth Southgate’s European Championship squad.

Striker- Jamie Vardy

Who else to finish the team? Last season’s Golden Boot winner is set for his sixth successive season as the number one striker at the club and is looking to score over 20 goals for the fourth time.

Vardy’s pace that he is so renowned for in 2016 has slowly decreased, but his knowledge of the game and how he reads the flow of the ball has been the main reason to how he netted 23 times last season.

Vardy comes up against one of his favourite opponents. With four goals against the Baggies have come at the Hawthorns and he will be looking to rustle more feathers, despite the game being behind-closed-doors.