Leicester must keep Marc Albrighton at all costs – here’s why

In another busy summer, Marc Albrighton finds himself linked with a move to fellow EPL side Burnley, in a potentially shocking transfer. In actual fact, a move to Turf Moor may not be the worst option for Albrighton in footballing terms. Although he saw plenty of game time last season, he won’t be a starter each week at the KPS and Burnley would probably provide him with a more important position in their side.

At 31 years of age, it’s understandable to want to maximise your playing time and Burnley’s high-pressing, cross-heavy style of play would be perfect for him in many ways. For former Fox Chris Wood, having a supply of crosses from both Dwight McNeil and Marc Albrighton would be a dream, although not for Premier League defenders.

In all honesty, this should be another reason not to sell ‘Sharky’ to another Premier League side. Chris Wood has haunted LCFC enough times, and with Marc Albrighton crossing to him, you can guarantee he will torment Foxes fans even more.

Finally, Leicester City are long-term admirers of Clarets centre-back James Tarkowski but have been put off by Burnley’s prohibitive £25m asking price. This is too much for a player with just a year on his deal, so perhaps Albrighton’s sale could help lower the asking price to £10-15m.

Leicester City can’t afford to lose him

Whilst Albrighton isn’t the flashiest player around, he brings things that money simply can’t buy. His experience as a title-winner and Premier League winger is pivotal in a largely youthful Leicester side, and such experience is necessary if Leicester are to challenge at the top once again.

On the pitch, it’s also clear Marc brings so much to the side, and has several years more service to offer. It seems he’s had to convince every single LCFC manager of his quality, yet he’s managed to do so each time. Versatility is ever so valuable to Brendan Rodgers, and Albrighton’s ability to play all down the right-hand side makes him a priceless squad member.

It’s safe to say that Albrighton doesn’t just make up the numbers, he’s excellent off the ball with his work ethic making him a fan favourite. On it, he’s proved to be one of the league’s best crossers and a reliable set-piece taker to boot. Even though he doesn’t get huge numbers of assists, the quality of crosses usually helps put pressure on the opposition and more often than not will lead to a Leicester City chance.

Admittedly, Albrighton probably doesn’t have the energy or attributes to play most games, with LCFC needing an inverted, goalscoring winger. Even though this is the case, in the coming season every member of the squad will be required to step in, with rotation needed to keep the stars fresh.

Ultimately, it’s up to the player where his future lies, and LCFC won’t stand in his way if he wants to leave. Nevertheless, Leicester should offer him a deserved new deal and assurances over his value and game time. It would certainly be a mistake to let him leave without trying every reasonable option to retain him.