Leicester City’s medical room is currently at capacity following a bruising period that has left interim manager Andy King with a depleted squad. The most pressing concern surrounds vice-captain Hamza Choudhury; who was seen leaving the stadium on crutches after a potentially significant knee injury against Charlton Athletic. He is set for scans this week, with the club fearing a lengthy absence.
Fitness issues
The midfield dilemma is further exacerbated by the unavailability of both star man Jordan James and forward-thinking loanee Aaron Ramsey. The pair are respectively sidelined with hamstring issues and not expected back until March. Oliver Skipp, however, offers a glimmer of hope as he is slated for a potential return against Birmingham this weekend.
"Interim boss Andy King said he saw Choudhury in a knee brace after the game and is predicting that it won’t be a quick recovery for the vice-captain."Leicester Mercury
Defensive options are similarly thin, with Jannik Vestergaard being managed 'day-to-day' (whatever that means!?). Not to mention Italian centre back Caleb Okoli serving an unnecessary and team-impacting suspension.
Problem solving at Leicester City
To navigate this turmoil, the Foxes have integrated three fresh faces following a frantic deadline day. A fourth signing may also materialise in Chelsea's Dujuan Richards.
First of all, Joe Aribo signed on loan from Southampton. He should slot directly into the engine room alongside Harry Winks or whoever is selected to provide much-needed Championship experience.
Aribo is joined by Manchester City starlet Divine Mukasa; the loanee adds creative flair in an advanced role. Defensively, the permanent short-term signing of Jamaal Lascelles from Newcastle United provides vital leadership to a backline likely featuring up-and-coming Fox Ben Nelson.
Up front, the XI is unfortunately expected to continue being led by Patson Daka or Jordan Ayew. Although, If the paperwork for Blues attacker Richards is finalised, the explosive Jamaican international will likely start on the bench, offering a potent second-half goalscorer alternative. Mukasa can also be deployed as a centre forward.