Bournemouth vs Leicester: expected starting XI and score prediction

Leicester City finally got their season underway with an emphatic 4-0 victory against East Midlands rivals Nottingham Forest.

A much-needed victory has given Brendan Rodgers breathing space whilst lifting the Foxes off the foot of the Premier League table. This starts a run of potentially winnable fixtures, with an away trip to Bournemouth up next for LCFC. Without further ado, FoL brings you thoughts on the team and how events might pan out.

Predicted Leicester City starting XI

It goes without saying that changes will be needed despite the previous victory. Brendan Rodgers stated in his press conference that both Wilfried Ndidi and Nampalys Mendy are injured. The Nigerian was substituted at half-time after picking up a hamstring strain whilst Mendy is suffering from a bruised knee. As a result, expect to see Boubakary Soumare fielded in the No.6 position, with the Frenchman impressing after coming on at half-time.

Furthermore, it will not be a surprise if Jamie Vardy returns to the bench after another frustrating outing leading the line. Patson Daka performed very well after coming on and his skillset will likely be more suited to a tricky away fixture as Vardy continues to struggle.

Overall, Rodgers is likely to stick with a similar system that worked such a treat at the King Power Stadium, with a few selection tweaks. Here is the predicted line-up in a 4-3-3 formation.

Leicester City predicted XI: Danny Ward; Timothy Castagne; Wout Faes; Jonny Evans; James Justin; Boubakary Soumare; Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall; Youri Tielemans; Harvey Barnes; Patson Daka; James Maddison.

Expectations

Despite being in 13th place, Bournemouth are statistically the worst team in the league, with an expected points total of just 5.14 (understat). Although the Cherries are overachieving, their results this season show that it will not be easy as they have only lost to Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool.

Therefore, Leicester City must continue their energy and display from Monday night if they are to pick up another three points. The Foxes will be buoyed by their maiden win this campaign and players such as James Maddison will be brimming with confidence.

Leicester fans will therefore hope the quality of such players will shine through and the defence will hold firm once again. With Bournemouth recording the worst xG in the league, there is no better chance for LCFC to earn a long-awaited away clean sheet.

Prediction: Bournemouth 0-2 Leicester City