Aston Villa 2-1 Leicester City: Player ratings

Harvey Barnes – 6

Had Matty Cash turning and back-pedalling in all directions in the first half and was rewarded with a coolly slotted finish. But as the game wore on, Cash simply rose his aggression levels and Barnes wilted under the pressure. He was ineffective second half except for an uncharacteristic header that nearly looped in. He hints at the player we saw last season but not for long enough.

Ademola Lookman – 4

Not vintage. Seemed to struggle against the ageing Ashley Young constantly being beaten in duels and giving away cheap fouls as well as the ball. Didn’t look sharp enough at all to have lasted for over an hour of football, not quite sure how he is retaining his place right.

James Maddison – 5

Didn’t make much of an impression on the game except for the holy trinity of a stupidly placed free-kick, then foul and yellow card all within 30 seconds. Had a couple of decent shots but rarely troubled the Villa defence.

Patson Daka – 8

The only bright spot on an otherwise forgettable day. Daka’s first Premier League start displayed fantastic hold-up play, aggression in closing down players, work rate, getting into striking positions and bringing other players into play. He expertly set up Barnes opener. He did fade into the second half but didn’t many Leicester City players. If Vardy does finish soon, his replacement looks promising.

SUBS

Jamie Vardy – 5

Had no effect on the game whatsoever. if he needs resting, why bother to play him even as a sub?

Ayoze Perez – 6

Got involved in the midfield play but only in angling for position, rarely in terms of changing the game.

Kelechi Iheanacho – 6

Despite a fantastic record against Aston Villa, he was afforded an entry on the 85th minute with little time to get involved. Hard to understand why he is being ignored so much.

Overall team performance 5/10

Although a poor result, Brendan Rodgers search for Leicester’s identity has finally been found in the 2021/2022 season. They are now looking at best a mid-table team within a completely abject defensive unit, that attacks with verve but wilts at the first sign of aggression. Expect inconsistency all the way till May.