Leicester’s midfield dilemma solved for Newcastle match

Ruud Van Nistelrooy’s options

Realistically, the senior squad has few other choices fit to play. With Harry Winks an unknown until the press conference, we can only safely assume Hamza Choudhury and Oliver Skipp are available. As such - with Pereira also out - the depth will need to come from elsewhere on the pitch and at Leicester. RVN’s team could reach into either the youth setup, or bring Facundo Bounanotte into midfield rather than on the wings.

Choudhury is the archetypical defensive midfielder. In the 94th percentile for interceptions, 79th for tackling, and adds to that an exceptional 99th percentile for pass completion: the player prioritises ball winning and ball retention above progression and creativity. Meanwhile, Skipp is more similar to Soumare: he likes to recieve the ball rather than win it, and either pass it on, or carry it forward with a supporting creative talent.

However, waiting in the youth set up will be Michael Golding and Will Alves. The young academy product Alves is an exciting attacking talent with immense technical ability, passing range, and creative intent. Should Nistelrooy want to attack Newcastle’s defenders, a 4-1-4-1 could be employed with Alves alongside Khannouss in that AM position.

Golding is a more interesting proposition for RVN. Leicester City signed the player in a separate deal to Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s transfer to Chelsea, but seemingly the English prodigal talent is reminiscent of the Foxes latest academy export. Golding’s most gratifying attribute is his passing range and understanding: that is, Golding will usually make defence-splitting or press-beating passes either direct or into space depending on context. He can also score, but his ability to release pacy forward is more useful.