Leicester City interim manager Andy King finds himself in a truly awkward position as he prepares for Tuesday's vital clash against fellow relegated foe Southampton. Tasked with steadying a ship currently swaying to and fro by a six-point deduction, a managerial vacuum and terrible inconsistency. King must now navigate a selection crisis that is partially self-inflicted.
The squad unavoidably shot itself in the foot with a series of needless dismissals, most recently Bobby De Cordova-Reid's reckless first-half challenge against Birmingham City. Prior to that, Caleb Okoli embarrassed himself. While some might argue this spike in aggression signals an improved, albeit misguided, commitment to the cause, it has left the roster dangerously thin.
Compounding the disciplinary woes is the loss of Joe Aribo, who is ineligible to face the Saints, his parent club, under the terms of his loan. He joins the suspended Jamaica international on the sidelines, with the latter beginning a three-match ban.
There is, however, a minor reprieve in the heart of defence with Okoli possibly returning to action after serving his own suspension. Midfielder Oliver Skipp returns as well. Yet the LCFC medical room remains very overcrowded, further hamstringing the boss's tactical options.
Leicester City injuries
First of all, vice-captain Hamza Choudhury is ruled out for the remainder of February with a serious knee injury. While centre back Harry Souttar remains sidelined with an Achilles issue until late in the month.
The midfield looks particularly barren: both goalscorers Jordan James and Aaron Ramsey are nursing hamstring injuries. They are not respectively expected to return until March. James is the invaluable loss to the LE2 team.
Meanwhile, veteran Jannik Vestergaard continues to be managed in an ambiguous 'day-to-day basis'. Leaving his involvement against his former side in significant doubt as the Foxes fight for English Football League Championship survival.
"...with Victor Kristiansen now fit again. He’s a rival for Luke Thomas."Leicester Mercury
Victor Kristiansen is, at least, assessed fit now. But what a downfall witnessed in live action!