Leicester City Football Club return to Championship action at the weekend. The Saturday lunchtime fixture versus Blackburn Rovers would typically be one that us members of the Foxes' Blue Army support would relish. As would any scheduled match. However, if I have gauged the fan base keenly enough this week, many of us are now daunted by the prospect of another City clash.
Why the pessimism and worry among the LCFC faithful? For one instance, we are dreading another drab stalemate and a disappointing performance. Alternatively and worst of all, a loss occurs at King Power Stadium to another beatable team. Ultimately we the fans shouldn't feel this way; we shouldn't actually be where we are!
Though mismanagement at the highest level of the East Midlands outfit can be compared, in some regards, to uneven recruitment for years on the whole. Let's hope that this (currently) badly run organisation doesn't, or hasn't, rubbed off on current head coach Marti Cifuentes.
Cifuentes, along with his Leicester backroom staff, are now reportedly being scrutinised by the hierarchy, and certainly by loyal supporters. The former Queens Park Rangers man must at least get his game plans right. Yet the most important aspect is always, in my opinion, the starting lineup chosen for any game.
To that end, three Leicester stars are expected to be dropped for the upcoming Blackburn contest. Which players were nominated? Which outlet made the claim? And, finally, do we agree?
Leicester Mercury starting XI prediction omits trio of Leicester City stars
Right, the Mercury's expectations are thus, a 4-3-3 formation for Cifuentes. He will likely select Jakub Stolarczyk in goal. With a back line of Ricardo Pereira, Wout Faes, Jannik Vestergaard and Luke Thomas.
"The decision over who plays up front will again be determined by how high Cifuentes feels Blackburn’s defensive line will be.
If he thinks Rovers will sit deep, then Ayew will start. If there’s going to be space in behind, then Patson Daka would be more likely to get the nod."
Harry Winks and Boubakary Soumare partner in midfield. While Jordan James supports Abdul Fatawu Jordan Ayew and Stephy Mavididi. Meaning Jeremy Monga, Caleb Okoli and Patson Daka are prospectively dropped.
As for Thomas, I'm not sure why he's ever been a City starter. Daka must be relinquished in January. While Monga must be treated carefully and with respect; a rest would possibly do the 16-year-old good.