Foxes player ratings in Leicester 1-2 Villa

Wilfred Ndidi. With Winks and Skipp playing in more defensive midfield roles, Ndidi was employed, as he was for much of last season, as an attacking number eight. He worked hard but one can’t help thinking that the Nigerian doesn’t have the technical ability to play higher up the pitch at this level. 5

Abdul Fatawu. The Ghanian winger is still finding his feet in the Premier League. Made one or two surging runs ruthlessly  dealt with by Villa players but had little impact on the game. Was substituted after 70 minutes. 5

Jordan Ayew. The new signing linked up play nicely and characteristically won a number of free kicks. However, the former Palace striker doesn’t have the pace to trouble top class defences. 6

Jamie Vardy. The Leicester legend worked hard to link up play and forge openings. Got more space in the second half and was unfortunate not to score when the referee controversially ruled out his strike because the ball hit the official earlier in the move. 7

Stephy Mavididi. The winger came on for the last twenty minutes and was mightily impressive regularly beating the Villa full back with pace and skill. Made the goal with a jinking run and cross. It is difficult to see how Cooper can leave him out of his starting eleven in the future. 8

Fucundo Buaonotte. The on-loan Brighton player made a big impact after coming on for the last twenty minutes, scoring Leicester’s goal with a clinical strike and offering some creativity in midfield. 7

Bilal El Khannouss. The new £20 million pound man came on at the same time as Buaonotte but, not surprisingly, the Moroccan midfielder struggled to get involved in the game. Could be a vital player this season though if he reproduces the form he has shown for Genk. 5