Leicester City head into this weekend's early kick-off (12:30pm UK time, Sky Sports) sitting 14th in the English Football League Championship. The desperation to return to clinical form saw Marti Cifuentes discarded as manager. The mood that defined the East Midlanders' early-season aspirations has evaporated. Following a frustrating 2-1 slip-up against Oxford United, the Foxes find themselves in a precarious mid-table limbo.
Charlton Athletic arrive at King Power Stadium in similar territory, hovering just a few points behind the hosts. While the Addicks have been inconsistent, their recent away form suggests a side that thrives on the counter-attack - perfect timing for LCFC! This Leicester team is prone to defensive lapses when caught in transition.
History and form
Historically, this is a fixture steeped in top-flight nostalgia, though it has been a rarity in the contemporary era. The two clubs have met 73 times in competitive action, with Leicester holding a narrow historical edge. Interestingly, encounters at the King Power have often been high-scoring affairs, though the points have been shared more often than not in their last five league meetings.
The visitors haven't secured a win on LE2 soil in over a decade; a record the home side will be desperate to protect as they look to rebuild a 'fortress' reputation for their home turf. Although a lunchtime start time changes the dynamic significantly: often leading to a cagey opening as both sides adjust to the early rhythm.
The Foxes will likely dominate the ball, judging by Andy King's preseason tactics. But the onus is on them to break down a Charlton side that will be well-drilled and happy to play the role of spoilers. Their breakaways can be swift and penetrative.
Injuries
Injury concerns continue to plague the Foxes camp; even though no fresh problem were reported by the interim gaffer. Oliver Skipp remains unavailable following a concussion, while Jordan James is still sidelined with a hamstring strain.
Harry Souttar and Victor Kristiansen also remain out of contention for this weekend. Yet the Dane is training once more. Aaron Ramsey is a long-term absentee too. Ben Nelson will be assessed and hopefully start. As expected, it appears Harry Winks has likely persuade the boss to give him another chance.
Predicted Leicester City XI
Jakub Stolarczyk; Nelson, Caleb Okoli, Jannik Vestergaard, Ricardo Pereira; Hamza Choudhury, Winks; Stephy Mavididi, Bobby De Cordova-Reid, Abdul Fatawu; Patson Daka.