Leicester City faced the most physical and, arguably, combative side of their preseason schedule so far as they took on Cadiz in Spain. At the moment, the Foxes are in the country 'enjoying' a summer training camp; the inverted commas perhaps necessary given that the modern LCFC roster is finally being put through their paces.
Some of the senior figures have long cried out for rigorous sessions on the practice pitches, and that is precisely what new manager Russell Martin has delivered since taking charge. Alongside established talents such as Oliver Skipp and Stephy Mavididi, who have visibly raised their fitness levels over the offseason, LCFC's promoted youth stars have shone brightly in the sun, both here and on their travels.
Many of these emerging talents are making their mark with every passing week as Martin sharpens his vision for the starting line-up with each friendly fixture. Indeed, the East Midlands outfit have now won all four of their warm-up matches, a sequence that catches the eye and steadily builds supporter confidence ahead of what promises to be a testing league campaign.
Northampton Town, Bristol Rovers and Burton Albion had already been dispatched before Wednesday night, and now el Submarino Amarillo have also been swept aside to extend that perfect record. Once again, it was Kirsten Otchere who provided the decisive moment; the young striker converting a header from Stephy Mavididi's decent cross to continue a remarkable run of form.
Outstanding Leicester City players - one way or another
The teenager has now registered three goals in as many outings, proving himself a reliable and composed finisher in these non-competitive encounters. Among those catching the eye alongside him, debutant goalkeeper Alex McCarthy performed admirably: producing four key saves to keep the game level at a crucial stage.
Harry Souttar stood tall in defence: commanding his area and distributing the ball with assurance to lay the foundation for a clean sheet. Across the backline, Caleb Okoli showed impressive pace and strength to foil danger, while Ben Nelson's speed and communication were equally valuable; Bade Aluko led by example with a steady and powerful display as captain.
At the interval, Jakub Stolarczyk took over between the posts and stood firm, making one particularly sharp stop to preserve the advantage. Further forward, Oliver Skipp stamped his authority on the midfield; influence the game superbly and shielding the defence effectively.
"In attack, Kirsten Otchere once again showed Martin why there's so much excitement around his name this summer with his third goal of the summer. After goals against Bristol Rovers and Burton Albion, the striker found space inside the box to head Stephy Mavididi's cross past David Gil."Leicester Mercury
Mavididi, meanwhile, looks a different proposition compared to last term: contributing far more consistently in attack and working tirelessly to cover his defensive flank. New signing Conor Chaplin offered plenty of promise too: linking play well, organising and protecting those around him, suggesting he may well secure the coveted No.10 role once the season begins.
Louis Page offered further evidence of his growing influence: advancing with maturity and looking capable of breaking through the opposition line. Sammy Braybrooke proved a dynamic presence in the centre of the park too: driving forward and tracking back in equal measure.
"Will AlvesLeicester Mercury
Struggled for a clear cut opportunity to run with the ball or drive into space. I’m not sure if he’s better out wide or centrally."
Even Luke Thomas earned praise for his defensive discipline in the second half. Yet not all were entirely satisfied with their contributions; Will Alves struggled to create opportunities to gallivant with the ball, never quite managing to impose himself on proceedings.
Others found the going tougher still, with Misrad Ali and Lorenz Hutchinson unable to influence the game. Indeed, Riley Carr lacked his usual cutting edge, and Jake Evans caused a bit of trouble without making a telling impact.
Tommy Neale conceded possession too frequently, and Hamza Choudhury found himself chasing play more often than dictating it, yet found Chaplin often. After such a promising start to their preparations, the Foxes now turn their attention to the challenge of Malaga.
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