Leicester vs Burton: will Foxes starting XI feature new signings?

On the wings, I think Ayozé Pérez starts as the right-winger — despite showing his best minutes in a Leicester City shirt through the middle (as a number 10). There’s a real lack of depth/options for Rodgers to choose from, he could delve into the youth academy — someone like Thanawat Suengchitthawon (after winning his first Thailand cap), and I think the Foxes faithful would enjoy watching some of the younger talents at the club. I’m just anticipating a more “experienced” setup from Rodgers. I would happily see Marc Albrighton start on either flank, but his future is under speculation at the moment.

To contrast this, on the left-side I think Thakgalo Leshabela will feature. For the last few seasons, Leshabela has been a crucial component to pre-season for the Foxes and I expect this continue — unless he makes a move away, there’s been some interest from Blackburn Rovers. The South African has become a part of the larger European squad for Leicester City and I think he’ll be rewarded with minutes prior to the season opener.

In attacking-midfield, I expect James Maddison to start. Aside from being the best option — who is fit and free to start, it would also give Rodgers a fresh perspective on whether or not the Englishman should continue to apply his trade in the East Midlands, or make a big money move to London — with Arsenal. I for one want Maddison to remain at the club, and he’s working overtime to ensure he’s physically and mentally at his peak ahead of the new season.

Lastly, I’d expect a start for Kelechi Iheanacho — as the striker positions are becoming increasingly competitive and the Nigerian forward deserves a chance to force his inclusion. Jamie Vardy needs to be eased into football this season, he’s ageing and managing the workload on him will be crucial for Leicester City’s hopes of European football.

I doubt either of the new signings will start the game — although I’d be pleasantly surprised if they did, but expect them to feature from the bench. Soumaré will most likely replace KDH around half-time (to an hour) and offer exceptional qualities in possession, while Patson Daka will probably feature in replacement of Kelechi Iheanacho. This is by no means an accurate representation of the XI Rodgers goes for, just my most calculated attempt to predict what the Foxes will look like for the first game of pre-season, away at Burton Albion.