It is all change at Leicester City Football Club. Like, seriously!
First of all, a new manager is in place in former Swansea City, MK Dons, Southampton and Rangers chief Russell Martin. The Blue Army remain noticeably cautious and, in some instances, genuinely concerned regarding the appointment of Martin.
The preemptive worry was primarily caused by the new gaffer's rigid tactical philosophy. Not to mention a perceived lack of pragmatism that could force struggles under potentially intense pressure from the King Power faithful.
Significant alterations are also occurring elsewhere within the Foxes outfit. The LCFC squad will transform almost as a whole as the outfit looks to recalibrate its financial and sporting trajectory.
Some young, promising players will inevitably leave, with Jeremy Monga and Ben Nelson likely heading through the exit door to seek a higher level of senior football elsewhere. Meanwhile, the East Midlands side's hierarchy will most likely look to cash in on the most valuable or exciting athletes on the roster, which will include Abdul Fatawu, much to the dismay of many City supporters.
A few less consistent stars, including Oliver Skipp, Caleb Okoli, Harry Souttar, Harry Winks and Stephy Mavididi may have to depart for various reasons. They range from behavioural issues and performance shortcomings to prohibitively high salaries; some unfortunately possess all three vices.
Youths will be promoted to bridge the gap; luckily there is a great crop of up-and-coming ballers at King Power Stadium, so that factor is a true blessing in disguise.
In the meantime, even the backroom staff have been swapped around as individuals were 'allowed to leave' and 'wished well', with fresh members hired.
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Among the newcomers is one-time rival Conor Hourihane, who arrives as assistant manager after a playing career spanning Derby County, Sunderland, Ipswich Town, Plymouth Argyle, Barnsley, Aston Villa, Swansea City and Sheffield United, alongside his international duties for the Republic of Ireland. He feels a very solid addition, as the 35-year-old was an accomplished midfielder who could arguably still get into the current City line-up!
"Ahead of the new season, we are pleased to welcome Conor Hourihane and Rhys Owen to Leicester City as members of our First Team coaching staff."lcfc.com
In addition to the aforementioned arrival, Steve Morison has come aboard as Academy Loan Manager. Morison brings experience from a combative career at Northampton Town, Bishop's Stortford, Stevenage, Millwall, Norwich City, Leeds United and Shrewsbury Town.
The final two members of Martin's team are club legend Andy King, who retains his coaching role. Alongside Rhys Owen, the former Rangers fitness coach.
