Aston Villa 1-2 Leicester: Five Foxes talking points
By Tobias Moore
1) Lost: Vardy’s magic hat
The iconic forward’s stats are possibly covering a decline. In open-play, Vardy has registered six goals in 20 league matches, with another six coming from the penalty spot. While by no means a bad return, it is some way from his exceptional standard. The impact of a groin hernia pre and post-surgery remains a point of contention.
Operating in his preferred sole striker role, the Englishman played off the attacking right, seeking to capitalise on the forward nature of left-back Matt Targett’s play this season. A saved shot in the opening 25-minutes provided a Barnes rebound. While the second-half witnessed two attacking chances squandered, with Tyrone Mings playing a clever defensive game to limit Vardy’s options. Seasons past may have seen Vardy conjure his trademark pace, but today provided little joy despite scoring five goals in previous league meetings.
2) Barn(es)stormer
The latest success story from the East Midlands academy production line is the name on Leicester City’s fans lips and the toast of Fantasy Football players worldwide. With 13 goal contributions to his name, seven coming in the new year, Barnes is the in-form Leicester player. A goal and assist provided the cushion needed to bring home three points today, a second consecutive man-of-the-match champagne bottle will be joining him on the short journey along the M42.
Given the Foxes lauded transfer policy, questions will be raised whether Barnes is the next high-profile departure. Maddison, Wilfried Ndidi and Ricardo Pereira have presented impressive cases over previous years to be next in line, but each has question marks over injuries. The Burnley native has faced no physical adversity, combining this with his form makes him an attractive prospect.