Rodgers on Leicester’s current EPL relegation battle

Brendan Rodgers talks Leicester City’s current Premier League relegation battle, as well as attempting to justify his team selection following FA Cup elimination.

Prior to the clash with Blackburn Rovers in the cup, Rodgers was asked about fighting for EPL survival this season. As usual, the gaffer chose not to offer a prediction or convey defiance. Instead, the 50-year-old outlined the competitive nature of the English top-flight:

"Relegation battle?“It’s certainly the most competitive. Over the years, there’s been a clear difference between the teams at the bottom in terms of resources, but not this year. You see the qualities in the teams and coaches in the league. Every single game is a challenge. It’s a great league to be involved in.”"

Brendan Rodgers attempts to justify rotation following FA Cup elimination subsequent to weaker starting lineup

Rotating your team for a League Cup fixture is more than understandable for a Premier League manager. Making a few alterations for an FA Cup clash is also standard procedure for EPL bosses. Although, when a chance to progress to the Quarterfinals arises, making many switches is questionable; Rodgers’ decision ultimately involves a fine margin. Unfortunately Blackburn were victorious, even with their weakened XI after injuries.

With respect to how many players he rotated, I think the King Power gaffer was measured and kept what he thought would be a solid core. Nevertheless, in spite of some players performing more than adequately, like goalkeeper Daniel Iversen, other choices such as Luke Thomas let the side down somewhat. Six alterations were made by the Northern Irishman in total, with Ricardo Pereira, Daniel Amartey, Boubakary Soumare and Jamie Vardy joining the aforementioned pair.

Following the final whistle at King Power Stadium, the ex-Liverpool manager was left to explain his selection. First of all, Rodgers said he didn’t regret the switches, partially because Victor Kristiansen and Harry Souttar required respective rests at risk of injury. All of which is understandable and justifies Thomas’s inclusion, though not hooking the leftback at halftime remains baffling.

In addition to that, Rodgers revealed that Soumare and Ricardo had impressed in training, hence their starts. The former admitted that he is to blame, yet insisted that his side were good enough to win on the night.