Leicester v Sheffield Utd: Foxes taking a blade to the Blades

The return of Jonny Evans

Defensively speaking, the Foxes have been fine. Not great as they were at the beginning of the season, but not terrible. It certainly has not helped having the focal point of the defence – Wesley Fofana – injured, then losing Jonny Evans a few matches ago.

That defensive partnership was indominable throughout the early stages of the season. You could not see a situation in which they were easily beaten: Evans providing composed leadership of the back line, Fofana providing the energy and grit to disrupt opposition attacking plays.

Well, Fofana is back, Caglar Soyuncu remains uninjured for now, and Evans is due to make a return to the team. Finally, one of the most balanced defences will be back up and running. Let us not so quickly forget the last minute heroics of Daniel Amartey!

Leicester City have nine clean sheets this season, conceding and xGA (expected goals against) of 34.21, actually conceding 32. Great defending from Fofana, startling saves from Kasper Schmeichel, and luck has meant two potential goals have been prevented.

The East Midlands outfit could do better, though it is perhaps unfair to judge to harshly when injuries and a lack of world class depth is the context Brendan Rodgers must work within.

Sheffield United are not performing well defensively. With only two clean sheets, an xGA of 45.69, actually conceding 45. This stands in complete contrast to their defensive heroics in the previous season.

What has likely happened at Sheffield is a massive hit to their confidence, a minor shakeup of their back line, and therefore a lack of understanding between their defenders. Without understanding the position, the role, and the responsibility, defenders will have troubles staying fully aware, or having the mental desire to put their body on the line to block a shot.

This could all change if their new manager, or caretaker manager, manages to get a solid defensive performance out of the team, or establish a balanced partnership to prevent silly goals being conceded on the turnover.

Let’s see how both teams have fared in an attacking way.