Will Leicester striker George Hirst get first team chance in 2022/23?

It’s not just a chance that Hirst will be pushing for, the young striker still hasn’t received a pro-contract with Leicester. Clearly there are strengths in his game. But Rodgers will need more than that if he is to prove himself, especially when you consider that he’ll be competing with Vardy, Daka and Iheanacho.

Initially signed from Leicester City’s sister-club, Belgian side OH Leuven, it would be a real bonus if the Foxes can get the best out of their young prospect and would certainly help with the squad’s summer rebuild. Just like Dewsbury-Hall and Luke Thomas have previously done, promotion of young talent can be the most effective way of reshaping a squad.

If Hirst can’t get his chance, he certainly has other options. After experiencing two years of first-team football, he wouldn’t want another season with the U23s, and I can’t see him wanting a third successive loan move. Whether that be at Leicester or somewhere else, the best thing for him is a permanent home.

Portsmouth manager Danny Cowley has already expressed his desire for the striker to return to the club where he is so adored. I’m sure that offer is more than tempting, after all it’s an environment he knows he can excel in. Wherever Hirst ends up, this is the biggest summer of his career so far – it is up for him to prove he has what it takes.