As Foxes fans continue to endure an underwhelming transfer window, whilst also being pummelled with speculation that stars such as Wesley Fofana, James Maddison, and even Jamie Vardy may exit the club, now is perhaps an apt time for us to sit back and appreciate the contributions of a player which has shown zero signs of ‘wanting out,’ Timothy Castagne.
The Belgian full-back, who originally signed for the Foxes on a five-year deal from Italian side Atlanta (for a reported fee of $21.5 million) has emerged as a fans favourite throughout his ongoing two year spell at the club. His versatility and unquestionable work ethic being the main qualities behind such consensus.
As per the timing of his signing, many tipped Castagne to be a direct replacement for Leicester’s most recent big-money export, Ben Chilwell. However, with aid from his relatively ’strong’ weaker left foot, as well as the fact that injuries have plagued the full back position at the club in recent years, this hasn’t necessarily been the case, as instead, he has spent a sizeable amount of minutes occupying both flanks.
Castagne began his City career in fantastic fashion, as he scored the first goal of the 2020/21 season during his debut against West Brom. Coincidentally, he also scored the maiden goal of this season during last week’s disappointing draw against Brentford. With such goals, which were both impressive headers, in mind, it makes sense to firstly acknowledge his aerial ability, which is arguably one of his most underrated attributes.
Being slightly above six foot in stature, Castagne inherently possesses an aerial threat which trumps that of smaller full backs. Defensively, this has meant that he is the first to many aerially-poised, back post-headed crosses, whilst offensively, it has meant that he has scored a couple of impressive headers, as well as pose as a general threat when occupying the opposition’s box. Overall, and through countless headed clearances that ultimately end up in a corner or throw in, the Belgian has been on the receiving end of many applauses from the Foxes faithful.
As his aerial proficiencies infer, the Belgian also possesses a wealth of athletic ability. Being relatively quick over a range of different distances, Castagne has been utilised as both a traditional full back, as well as a more attacking wing back (on both flanks that is). This means that with help from his impressive engine, he has produced an abundance of energetic, 90-minute performances, wherein which he was able to contribute at both ends of the pitch.
In addition, Castagne’s intelligent defensive know-how has also meant that he has been deployed as a centre-back in ‘back five’ systems (or three depending on how you look at it) on numerous occasions, meaning irrespective of the formation Rodgers deploys, there is always a place for Tim in the team. As many Leicester fans may admit, such reliability, versatility, and consistency of Castagne may’ve perhaps gone under the radar to begin with, however on reflection, these qualities were of huge demand throughout the injury-ridden times of last season (although he did pick up a couple of injuries himself throughout such period too).
With regards to Castagne’s technical ability, this isn’t an area which he necessarily excels in, however his proficiencies with his weaker foot mean that he is able to navigate the ball, his positioning, and his passes, in a manner which ‘more technical’ full backs who are ‘more one footed’ cannot. With this in mind, his isolated passing, first touch, and overall control are not on the levels of elite full-backs such as Trent Alexander-Arnold or João Cancelo, however as inferred by his extensive play time, they are still good enough to warrant a place in a possession-focused Brendan Rodgers system. In addition, and as we found out in last season’s home tie against Brentford, Castagne also has the ability to unleash screamers, which is an asset that many a Leicester fan will want to see more of this season.
Despite such well-rounded capabilities, and as with every football player to grace the British game, Castagne’s gradually-found ‘fan favourite’ stature has primarily came through his unrivalled work ethic, professionalism, and bravery on and off the ball. As previously stated, the player consistently puts in tireless performances – some with more quality/output than others – which is a trait that is impossible to ignore after two years of showcasing.
The Belgium representative has also completely avoided controversy both on and off the pitch. In fact, he received only two yellow cards during his ongoing two year spell at the club. And his press appearances only ever highlight his down to earth and ‘fan like’ outlook.
Collectively, these traits, along with his consistent and versatile on-field performances, have made Castagne an idyllic Leicester city representative. As with the nature of English football fandom, players who possess the above traits will always eventually receive adulation from fans, even if it takes adversity, struggle, and time, to finally come to fruition. In the context of City, such struggles have come through the prevalent injuries of his fellow (and perhaps superior) full backs, Ricardo Pereira and James Justin, who, despite their quality, fans have never been able to properly rely on.
Castagne, on the other hand, has, and as I predict, will continue to be an ever-present throughout the 2022/23 season, where in doing so, he will present the same attitude, intensity, and effort in every match, irrespective of the position Rodgers plays him in. That’s why we love Timothy Castagne. Tell FoL who your current LCFC hero is via our verified Twitter account.