Injury news and return dates: Evans, Fofana, Castagne and Justin

Leicester City have been struggling for form this season after injuries to key players like Jamie Vardy, Jonny Evans and Wesley Fofana.

The Foxes sit in eleventh position in the Premier League table, which tells us a lot about how underwhelming this season has been. They have struggled hugely in the defence department. LCFC has conceded the highest amount of goals this season, more than any other team in the top-flight. A lot of criticism has been showered upon Brendan Rodgers for it but various pundits think that it’s more because of the huge absence list.

Jonny Evans and Wesley Fofana, who were the main centre-back pairing last season, have not played together this campaign even once. Kasper Schmeichel’s captained side has also conceded the highest number from set pieces, as well as from corners. James Justin was a long term absentee after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament issue in 2020/21. He returned last month yet is out again after injuring his hamstring.

Jamie Vardy is another huge miss too for the team. Patson Daka has impressed with his immaculate finishing and electric pace but the contribution of 2015-16 PL winner is a lot more other than just scoring goals. The main reason for Justin’s problem, according to some experts, is because of the fact that the boss has few options to choose from in the fullback position with Timothy Castagne also out. Consequently, the former Luton Town defender had to play almost every game and wasn’t rested in any match.

Rodgers, speaking in his post-match interview after a narrow defeat to Wolves, said of possible comebacks:

"“Jamie’s probably seven to 10 days away from rejoining the squad. Jonny is still a number of weeks, Wesley is training but we need to manage him back. Timothy is a few weeks away, JJ in the next week or so.”Reported Leicester Mercury"

In addition, ‘BR’ since declared that Fofana is “not imminently close to playing“.

The 2020-21 FA Cup winners now travel to Denmark to play Randers in the second leg to qualify for last 16 in their quest to win Europa Conference League. Perhaps the only way for them to qualify for Europe this season.