Gary Rowett's post-playing career has been defined by his ability to organise and stabilise English Football League outfits. After a sporting vocation that saw him represent the likes of Derby County, Birmingham City and Leicester City (making over 50 appearances for the Foxes between 2000 and 2002) he transitioned into management with notable spells with Burton Albion and the Blues.
The 51-year-old's managerial journey has since taken him back to Derby and Millwall. Not to mention a previous stint at Stoke City; making this weekend's encounter a poignant return to the bet365 Stadium. Now, Rowett returns to LCFC as a 'firefighter' tasked with hauling his former club out of the relegation zone following a period of significant instability.
Stoke City vs Leicester City
Kick-off
The first test of the Rowett era begins with a high-stakes trip to the Potteries. Kick-off is scheduled for 12:30pm on Saturday, February 21.
Television and streaming details
For fans unable to make the trip to Staffordshire, the match will be broadcast live in the United Kingdom on Sky Sports+. Subscribers can also stream the action via the Sky Go app or through NOW TV, ensuring full coverage of this critical basement battle.
Injuries
In terms of team news, the official Foxes update from Rowett and lcfc.com remains cautious. But local reports suggest the treatment room is far from empty!
"We are a little light in certain areas, we’re okay in other areas."Gary Rowett, speaking to lcfc.com
Leicester must contend with a daunting list of absentees, including Jamaal Lascelles, Jannik Vestergaard, Harry Souttar, Hamza Choudhury, Jordan James and Aaron Ramsey. However, Rowett is expected to be boosted by the return of Joe Aribo, who was ineligible for the previous outing.
Starting lineup
Based on Rowett's tactical traits and fitness updates from Leicester Mercury, the East Midlanders are likely to field a similar 4-2-3-1 formation. Asmir Begovic may start in goal; possibly protected by a back four of Ricardo Pereira, Caleb Okoli, Ben Nelson, and Victor Kristiansen.
In midfield, Harry Winks and Oliver Skipp will likely provide the screen. Thus allowing Abdul Fatawu, Divine Mukasa and Stephy Mavididi to support Patson Daka up front.
"Predicted City line-up (4-2-3-1): Begovic; Ricardo, Okoli, Nelson, Thomas; Winks, Aribo; Fatawu, Mukasa, Mavididi; Daka."Leicestershire Live's expected team
A 'new manager bounce' would be nice, yet feels unlikely. Overall, a gritty 1-1 draw seems the most probable outcome. Though winning is vital!