Leicester v Huddersfield Preview

There are a few interesting selection headaches for the manager ahead of Huddersfield's visit to the King Power Stadium. Nigel Pearson will surely revert to a 4-4-2 formation after playing 4-5-1 in the last two matches away from home. The main question will be whether new signing Chris Wood's registration is completed in time for him to partner David Nugent up front. If not, Martyn Waghorn would seem the obvious choice. In midfield, King was rested against Burnley and may return in place of Matty James. If the formation does revert to 4-4-2, then only 2 of Dyer, Knockaert and Marshall will play. My guess is that Marshall would miss out. Moore may continue in place of Whitbread if the defender is still not fit enough to regain his place.

All of the omens point towards a comfortable home victory. Leicester have the best defence in the league and have won 8 out of 12 league fixtures at the King Power Stadium this season. Huddersfield, by contrast, haven't won for 9 league games and sit bottom of the form guide over that period. Leicester are looking for their fifth consecutive league victory over the Terriers and their second succesive home and away league double. Huddersfield's last victory at Leicester came at Filbert Street in October 1954. The odds are certainly in favour of the Foxes starting the new year with a win for the third year running.

Happy Newg Year!

David Nugent's 12th goal of the season, in the 31st minute, gave Leicester City a 1-0 victory at Burnley this afternoon. It secured the Foxes fourth away victory of the season and cemented their position in 5th place, as chasing teams faltered. Although Leicester dominated the possession and managed more shots at goal than their opponents, they didn't play particularly well. However, the Foxes managed to keep the Clarets out, to secure an impressive tenth clean sheet in 25 games so far this season. Manager Nigel Pearson, a former centre back, will be delighted with that statistic.

Wes Morgan takes a huge amount of credit for his assist this afternoon. He was fouled in the build-up and may well have been awarded a penalty. However, he fought on and crossed the ball for Nugent to score, from inside the 6 yard box, against his former club. With the best defensive record in the Championship, and 11 goal Chris Wood arriving next week to partner 12 goal David Nugent up front, Leicester may well have the ingredients to make it a very happy 2013.

Next up, Leicester play Huddersfield at the King Power Stadium on New Year's Day. The Terriers are in freefall, having secured just 5 points from their last 9 games, conceding 16 goals along the way. It couldn't be a better time to play them...

Burnley v Leicester Team News

Two changes for Leicester. Dyer replaces King and Moore replaces the injured Whitbread. Burnley's top scorer Charlie Austin plays.

Leicester team in full (4-5-1) :

Schmeichel, De Laet, Moore, Morgan (c), Konchesky, Marshall, Drinkwater, James, Dyer, Knockaert, Nugent.

Substitutes: Logan, Keane, King, Schlupp, Waghorn, Futacs, Gallagher.

Pearson Means Business

The January transfer window doesn't open until next week, yet Nigel Pearson has reportedly secured the signings of two new players. West Bromwich Albion striker Chris Wood has agreed terms with Leicester in a deal reported to be worth an initial £1.25m. The 21 year old New Zealand international has spent this season on loan at Millwall, where he has bagged 11 goals in 19 games for the Lions. Goals have been an issue for the Foxes and Pearson will hope that Wood can forge a productive partnership with David Nugent. The deal will surely trigger the departure of Futacs from the King Power Stadium. It is also reported this evening that Leicester have secured a deal worth £1m for Blackpool defender Alex Baptiste.

Burnley v Leicester Preview

Nigel Pearson will surely presist with the 4-5-1 formation that gained the Foxes a point at Hull on Boxing Day. Tomorrow's trip to Burnley will be the 3rd game of 5 in a hectic 15 day period over Christmas and New Year. It is possible therefore that, although the team performed well at Hull, there may be some changes in personnel. Dyer may come in for Knockaert or Marshall and don't be surprised to see Waghorn replace Nugent up front. Nugent struggled to make an impact at Hull in the lone striker role. Waghorn is 5 years younger than Nugent and should be fresher after a period on the sidelines. Interestingly, only 1 of Nugent's 11 goals this season have come in games away from the King Power Stadium.

Burnley's Charlie Austin has bagged an incredible 23 goals already this season and is the real danger man for the Clarets. Wes Morgan will have to be at his absolute best to keep the striker quiet for 90 minutes, if Austin plays. He was withdrawn during the second half on Boxing Day, complaining of a muscle injury. His absence would be a huge plus for the Foxes. Burnley are currently 13th in the table but have a good home record this season, having lost just 2 of their 12 matches at Turf Moor. Leicester are on the hunt for just their 4th away victory of the season, a record which must improve if they are to mount a serious push for promotion in the New Year. Every other team in the top 6 has secured a minimum of 5 victories on the road already this season. Clearly, Leicester are playing catch-up. 3 points tomorrow could set the tone for a Happy New Year.

Foxes and Tigers Share the Spoils

Leicester City drew 0-0 at in-form Hull City this afternoon, preventing the Tigers from securing their fifth successive league victory. It was a good result for Leicester, away from home, against a team who had won 7 of their previous 10 fixtures. At last Pearson, moved away from the predictable 4-4-2 formation, replacing Dyer and Vardy with Marshall and James. The five man midfield of Knockaert, King, James, Drinkwater, King and Marshall matched up well against Hull and prevented the home side from dominating possession and taking control of the game. However, Nugent was isolated up front and failed to make much of an impact. He was replaced by Waghorn in the 67th minute, who also struggled to affect the game as a lone striker.

Although a point away from home is a good result, Leicester have now failed to score in any of their last three matches, despite having had a total of 40 attempts at goal in those three games. Clearly, a new striker will be top of Nigel Pearson's shopping list in the January sales. If the Foxes are to maintain a place in the top 6 during the second half of the season, they will need to find another striker who can net a dozen goals between now and May. Nugent is certainly capable of that feat but Vardy, Futacs and Waghorn have just seven league goals between them so far this season. Vardy and Waghorn have had plenty of opportunities this season already but Futacs rarely gets an opportunity. It is clear that Pearson has no confidence in the Hungarian's ability to fire Leicester's promotion push in the second half of the season. 

Pearson needs to uncover a gem in the January transfer market but at a reasonable price. £3m Beckford has extended his loan spell at Huddersfield, £3m Waghorn is not scoring regularly and £1m Vardy is struggling with the step up from non-league football. A lot of money spent with very little return in terms of goals. Does anyone know the Thai for "Do you have deep pockets?!"

Hull v Leicester Team News

Leicester City starting eleven: Schmeichel, De Laet, Morgan (c), Whitbread, Konchesky, Knockaert, Drinkwater, James, King, Marshall, Nugent.

As predicted last weekend, a change of formation to 4-5-1 with both Knockaert and Marshall on the pitch from the beginning. A big game for Matty James, I would probably have preferred Dyer, or even Gallagher, who both get a place on the bench.

Substitutes bench looks very attacking: Logan, Moore, Waghorn, Dyer, Futacs, Gallagher, Schlupp.

Hull City v Leicester City Preview

This is not a good time to be playing Hull City. The Tigers have won 7, drawn 1 and lost 2 of their last ten league games, making them the form team in the division. They have also won the last 4, propelling them up to second place in the Championship table. Manager Steve Bruce is likely to name an unchanged side from Friday night's 2-1 victory at Derby.

Leicester, by contrast are experiencing a serious slump in form. Without a win in their last three matches, the Foxes have a very poor away record. Waghorn will be pushing for a place in the starting line up after his substitute appearance in last Saturday's defeat against Cardiff. However, Pearson must surely be considering a change in formation to try and stop the rot. 4-5-1 may be an option with Nugent playing as the lone striker, with Knockaert in a free role in midfield. This would enable Pearson to get Marshall into the starting line-up, to make up a midfield with King, Drinkwater and Dyer.

Pressure Piles on Predictable Pearson

Nigel Pearson selected the same team that lost 1-0 at Millwall last weekend and got exactly the same result against Cardiff City at the King Power Stadium this afternoon. Leicester started the game fairly brightly, testing the goalkeeper on several occasions and hitting the woodwork twice in the first half. The fact that Leicester had 13 shots on target to Cardiff's 3, tells you everything you need to know about the Foxes lack of clinical finishing in recent games. Cardiff, by contrast, had one clear cut opportunity in the 25th minute when Bellamy found space on the edge of the box and fired home an excellent goal. Bellamy was comfortably the best player on the pitch and not a man to leave in space on the edge of your own six-yard box.

Cardiff were extremely organised and solid in the second half and never really looked like surrendering their lead. In truth, Leicester were predictable, one dimensional and devoid of ideas and creativity. This is becoming a major issue for the Foxes, who have managed just 12 points from the last 10 league games, placing them 15th in the form guide over that period. Teams have worked out that Leicester play 4-4-2 week in and week out and that predictability is enabling teams to get results against the Foxes.

Even the substitutions are becoming obvious. In the last 8 games, Marshall has replaced Knockaert on 4 occasions between the 60th minute and the 77th minute. On two other occasions, Knockaert has replaced Marshall during the second half. It is time for Pearson to try something different, perhaps looking for a way to get both of these creative players into his starting line-up. Knockaert is not effective playing wide in midfield and needs to play in the hole behind the strikers or be given the licence to roam.

Schlupp should certainly be getting on to the pitch ahead of Lingard and Futacs must be wondering what he has to do to get onto the pitch. Vardy can't buy a goal and Waghorn has just returned from an operation to remove his appendix. Yet, Waghorn still got onto the field before Futacs. At one point, Waghorn even checked his wound hadn't been damaged after a foul! Meanwhile, Leicester were playing long balls up to short strikers who got little change out of Cardiff's tall, robust defence.

At no point today did the formation change. Leicester could have gone to three at the back, throwing Morgan up front or replaced Konchesky with Schlupp to get an extra midfielder. Knockaert could have played behind the front two. Futacs could have made an appearance to challenge Cardiff's back line and provide an aerial threat. Instead, the substitutions were simply straight swaps and "fresh legs" as the manager put. Pearson must find a different formula for Boxing Day's trip to Hull - much for the manager to chew over during his Christmas dinner.

Leicester City v Cardiff City Preview

Only Burnley and Ipswich have conceded more goals away from home than Cardiff City this season. However, the Bluebirds have also scored more goals on the road than any team apart from Watford. Leicester have the second best home record in the league behind the league leaders and tomorrow's visitors Cardiff. The Foxes boast the meanest defence in the Championship, with just 21 goals conceded in 22 league games. They have also managed 8 clean sheets. Leicester have won just one of their last 4 games and will be keen to put 3 points on the board against a team that they have beaten in each of the last 3 home league meetings. It promises to be an excellent game.

If 100% fit, Waghorn is sure to replace the disappointing Vardy and it may be a toss-up between Knockaert and Marshall to play on the right of midfield. Konchesky needs to perform after a disappointing run, highlighted by the excellent, dynamic performances of Schlupp when deputising at left back recently. Cardiff captain Mark Hudson returns for the visitors after his one match suspension.

Foxes Tamed in the Lions' Den

Leicester slumped to their 6th away league defeat of the season with a 1-0 loss at Millwall this afternoon. Only 3 teams outside of the relegation zone have lost more times on the road so far this term. In the top half of the league, Leicester and Derby share the unenviable record of being the worst travelling teams, each with just 11 points from a possible 33. Questions must be asked as to why Pearson persists with playing 4-4-2 away from home and why Futacs isn't given a run in the side, particularly away from home, where Leicester are often playing a much more direct style of football. Futacs certainly deserves his opportunity over Jamie Vardy, who has failed to impress at this level so far.

City did start the match fairly brightly with several efforts at goal in the first couple of minutes. However, it was a poor performance overall. There was an inevitability about substitute Chris Taylor's 67th minute goal for the home side. He slotted the ball home from inside the six yard box after a period of sustained pressure. Nigel Pearson's double substitution two minutes later, with James and Futacs replacing King and Dyer respectively, was too little too late. There must now be serious consideration given to a switch of formation and personnel for Boxing Day's trip to Hull City. Before that of course, is the small matter of next weekend's visit of league leaders Cardiff City to the King Power Stadium. With such dire away form, the pressure is certainly mounting on Leicester at home. So far, the Foxes have been equal to the challenge but Cardiff will certainly provide the toughest possible test.

Millwall Preview

Millwall striker Darius Henderson has been ruled out of tomorrow's match against Leicester with a hamstring injury. This is a blow for the Lions as Henderson has scored 7 goals for Millwall this term. Club captain Paul Robinson is also missing with a pelvis injury. Leicester's David Nugent has been passed fit, although Waghorn misses out (appendix). This may prompt Nigel Pearson to consider a change to the traditional 4-4-2 formation that he has employed all season. Undoubtedly this has worked at home, where Leicester have built up a formidable record this season.

However, on the road, City have the second worst record of the teams currently in the top half of the Championship table. There is an argument for experimenting with a 4-5-1 formation. Perhaps Nugent to play up front on his own, with Dyer and Marshall playing as wingers. This would leave a midfield three of King, Drinkwater and Knockaert, with the latter being allowed a free role in behind the lone striker. With just 11 away points from a possible 30 so far, it's surely worth trying something different.

Tardy Vardy Snatches Point

Substitute Jamie Vardy's 90th minute goal rescued a point for Leicester against Barnsley in this afternoon's 2-2 draw at the King Power Stadium. Nigel Pearson made one change from the side that beat Derby with Nugent replacing Vardy in the starting line-up. The match started well for Leicester. Knockaert fired a left-footed shot into the bottom corner of the net to give City the lead in just the 9th minute. However, a poor clearance from Schmeichel lead to the equalising goal in the 27th minute, Stephen Dawson firing the ball home from 12 yards. Noble-Lazarus put the visitors 2-1 up in the 39th minute, volleying home superbly from 6 yards. With just seconds remaining on the clock, Vardy fired home a header from Whitbread to snatch the equaliser.

It was a poor performance from Leicester who surrendered possession too easily and were not able to impose their game on the opposition in the same way as they have managed in recent weeks. Their best spell of the game came in injury time when King had a couple of opportunities to steal all 3 points. The result leaves Leicester 5th in the Championship table, with Middlesborough and Hull leapfrogging them in the table. City now face a tough run of fixtures against 3 teams in the top 7 - Millwall, Cardiff and Hull. It will be a real test of Leicester's promotion credentials, particularly the away trips to Millwall and Hull. In the top half of the Championship table, only Derby have accumulated less points on the road than Leicester. Nigel Pearson will have to find a winning formula away from home if City are to improve upon or even maintain 5th place in this very competitive league.

Barnsley Preview

David Nugent should regain his place in the starting line-up for this afternoon's visit of Barnsley to the King Power Stadium. Jamie Vardy, who has only managed 3 league goals this season, is bound to make way. Marshall may well replace Knockaert, given the French player's arrest last weekend for a public order offence. Barnsley are one place above the relegation zone and are the joint lowest scorers in the division. Leicester, by contrast, sit third in the table and have scored 24 goals in 10 home matches. Only Crystal Palace can top that with 27 goals at home.

FA Cup 3rd Round Draw

Leicester City will face Burton Albion at the King Power Stadium in the 3rd Round of the FA Cup. The match will take place on the weekend of 5th and 6th January 2013.

 

The draw in full:

 

Crystal Palace v Stoke City

Brighton & Hove Albion v Newcastle United

Tottenham Hotspur v Coventry City

Wigan Athletic v AFC Bournemouth

Fulham v Blackpool

Aston Villa v Ipswich Town

Charlton Athletic v Huddersfield Town

Barrow/Macclesfield Town v Cardiff City

Barnsley v Burnley

Manchester City v Watford

Swansea City v Arsenal

Leicester City v Burton Albion

Millwall v Preston NE

Cheltenham Town/Hereford United v Everton

Derby County v Tranmere Rovers

Crawley Town v Reading

Aldershot Town v Rotherham Utd/Notts County

Middlesborough v Harrogate Town/Hastings Utd

Accrington Stanley/Oxford Utd v Sheffield Utd

Southampton v Chelsea

QPR v West Brom

Peterborough United v Norwich City

Lincoln City/Mansfield Town v Liverpool

Bolton Wanderers v Sunderland

Nottingham Forest v Oldham Athletic

West Ham v Manchester Utd

Hull City v Alfreton Town/Leyton Orient

Blackburn Rovers v Bristol City

Leeds Utd v Birmingham City

Bury/Southend v Bradford City/Brentford

Luton Town v Wolverhampton Wanderers

Sheffield Wednesday v MK Dons

 

Silence of the Rams

Leicester notched up their 8th home league victory of the season, running out 4-1 winners over Derby County at the King Power Stadium this evening. For the first half an hour, City were irresistible and stormed into a 2-0 lead. Whitbread headed home a superb Waghorn corner in just the sixth minute to put Leicester ahead. In the 23rd minute, Vardy flicked on a Knockaert cross and Waghorn slotted the ball cooly into the bottom corner to double City's advantage. It was a thoroughly deserved goal for man of the match Waghorn, who is going from strength to strength. In truth, Leicester should have killed the game off and scored several more goals in that opening period. Waghorn struck the crossbar and Legzdins in the Derby goal made several good saves to keep the Rams in the game.

Derby came back into the match after the half hour mark and dominated until half-time. They got their rewards when, in the 38th minute, Robinson finished neatly from 15 yards. In the second half, it seemed as if Derby were the most likely team to score again. However, Pearson replaced Dyer and Vardy with Marshall and Nugent in the 66th minute and the pair combined beautifully for Leicester's third goal. Marshall dribbled down the left flank, stood the ball up to the back post and Nugent nodded home his tenth goal of the season. The eleventh followed in the 89th minute - a brilliant, sliced half-volley from the edge of the penalty area into the top corner of the net. Nugent hadn't been expected to play any part in this match and only resumed training yesterday. His 2 goals were a huge bonus for Nigel Pearson's men and crucial in securing all 3 points for the Foxes. The victory moves Leicester up to 3rd place in the table.

Derby Preview

Leicester face Derby County at the King Power Stadium this evening in front of the Sky cameras. Derby are currently in 12th place, having lost their last three away games. The Rams have also lost their last four meetings with the Foxes, failing to score or record a point in any of these fixtures. Only Ipswich have scored fewer on the road than Derby, the Rams managing to find the net just 7 times. No wonder they have only notched up 8 points in their 9 away games this season. By contrast, Leicester have taken 22 points from a possible 27 at home this term and will be confident of improving that record today. With Middlesborough losing at Birmingham last night, Cardiff not playing until tomorrow and Crystal Palace facing a tough home fixture against Brighton, tonight's match presents Leicester with an opportunity to close the gap on the teams above them.

After conceding a penalty at Leeds on Tuesday, Jeffrey Schlupp may lose his place to the more experienced Paul Konchesky. This would be a mistake, as Schlupp offers pace and an attacking threat from full-back. Knockaert may replace Marshall in midfield and, in the continued absence of Nugent, Futacs will be pushing for Vardy's place in the team. The former Fleetwood Town striker works hard for the team but has managed just 3 league goals in 16 appearances this term. Futacs deserves the opportunity to see if he can do any better.

Leicester Pay Penalty for Jeffrey's Bungle

Leicester City lost 1-0 at Leeds United this evening, after Jeffrey Schlupp conceded a penalty in just the third minute of the match. Schlupp, who has been a revelation at left back in the last few matches, was guilty of a naive challenge on Samuel Bryam. Luciano Becchio dispatched the resulting spot-kick with his left foot. In truth, the Foxes were lucky to go into half-time only a goal behind, as Leeds dominated the remainder of the first half. Pearson named an unchanged side for tonight's game, but his team didn't perform at the same level as the had on Saturday. In central midfield, Drinkwater and King were outplayed by their opposite numbers and this had a huge bearing on the result.

In the second half, Leicester posed much more of a threat to the home side. Just before the hour mark, Futacs and Knockaert replaced Vardy and Marshall respectively. Both players had an immediate impact, with Futacs setting up Waghorn for a shot and Knockaert also having a shot on target from range. Ultimately, Leicester didn't do enough to get back into the game, and Leeds held on to secure back to back home victories. After tonight's performance, and 350 miles on the road in the last four days, Leicester will now be looking forward to two home games of their own. Certainly, Saturday evening's fixture against Derby, in front of the Sky cameras, is a mouth watering prospect.  

Leicester have a Hoot at Owls' Expense

Leicester won 2-0 at Sheffield Wednesday this afternoon, securing their third away league victory of the season so far. It was a well deserved victory, with City dominating possession and forcing more efforts on goal than their opponents. The victory moves Leicester up to 3rd place in the Championship table, as Middlesborough and Hull both lost at home, to Bristol City and Burnley respectively. Jeff Schlupp deservedly retained his place at left-back, despite the fact that Paul Konchesky was 100% fit. It was another superb display from the youngster and Konchesky will find it difficult to force his way back into the side. Marshall replaced Knockaert on the right-hand side of midfield and Vardy played in place of the injured Nugent. Otherwise, it was the same team that demolished Ipswich at the King Power Stadium a week ago.

In the 41st minute, Danny Drinkwater scored the first goal for the Foxes. It was an excellent finish from the edge of the penalty area, into the bottom right-hand corner of the net. City continued to dominate the match and squandered several opportunities to extend their lead. However, 15 minutes from time, former Sheffield Wednesday loanee Ben Marshall finally secured all 3 points for City. It was a superb goal, a left footed finish from outside the box, into the top left hand corner of the net. Next up, another trip to Yorkshire to take on Leeds United at Elland Road on Tuesday night. Nigel Pearson's men will certainly be confident of another positive result.

Foxes Hammer Six Past Ipswich

As predicted in last week's entry, Leicester City demolished Ipswich Town 6-0 at the King Power Stadium this afternoon. The damage was done before half-time with City scoring four times before the break. After just 7 minutes, Lloyd Dyer was fouled in the box and David Nugent dispatched the resulting penalty to put City in front. There was only going to be one winner from then on. Just ten minutes later, Nugent doubled the home side's advantage. In the 27th minute, the excellent Lloyd Dyer scored the third, thumping a shot into the bottom corner of the net. Vardy replaced Nugent on the half hour mark, injury denying the former England striker the chance of securing his second hat-trick of the season. A couple of minutes before half-time, Knockaert capped a perfect first half display by grabbing City's fourth goal of the game.

The loudest cheer of the match was reserved for Leicester's 5th goal. Martyn Waghorn, who has worked tirelessly for the team over recent weeks, scored a well deserved goal from the edge of the penalty area. Futacs fired home the sixth goal with 8 minutes remaining to cap an outstanding performance. The result leaves Leicester in 5th place. However, it will give Nigel Pearson's men a huge confidence boost, particularly as their next two fixtures are against teams who are also struggling near the foot of the table. City travel to Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday and to Leeds on the following Tuesday night. On current form, it would take a brave person to bet against Leicester in either fixture.

Foxes Fail to Finish off Forest

A dubious penalty award in the 67th minute enabled Nottingham Forest to rescue a 2-2 draw in the East Midlands derby at the King Power Stadium this afternoon. It was a game that Leicester should have won comfortably. Two efforts were cleared off the line and Forest's goalkeeper, Camp, made a couple of excellent saves. To rub salt into the wound, Leicester were denied a definite penalty when Gillett handled Lloyd Dyer's shot late on. In truth, Leicester had opportunities to win the game and Waghorn will be disappointed not to have bagged at least a couple of goals. The result leaves City in 5th place in the Championship table and without a win in four league games.

The game started brilliantly for City, as Lloyd Dyer's shot was deflected into his own net by Ward in the 7th minute. It followed excellent work from Nugent and Waghorn to set the opportunity up for the winger. Forest replied in the 22nd minute, as Adlene Guedioura swept the ball home after a good Forest move down the right hand side. The Foxes restored their lead just 10 minutes later. A sublime chip from Knockaert found Nugent, who deftly helped the ball over the helpless Camp in Forest's goal. Mid-way through the second half, Schlupp squandered possession in midfield and this lead directly to the penalty incident. It was a real shame for Schlupp, who had performed brilliantly at left back in place of the injured Konchesky. Whitbread was adjudged to have fouled Sharp in the box and Cox scored from the resulting spot-kick. It was a cruel blow for Leicester, with Forest's manager Sean O'Driscoll admitting that the penalty should not have been awarded.

Next weekend, Leicester welcome Ipswich Town to the King Power Stadium. Mick McCarthy's team have conceded 17 goals in 8 away fixtures this term and sit 22nd in the Championship table. There is a sense that, with all of the chances that Leicester are creating, they are set to give someone a real hiding. Perhaps the Portman Road side will be on the receiving end next Saturday.

Foxes Fire Blank at Bolton

Leicester prevented a third successive defeat at Bolton Wanderers this evening, securing a 0-0 draw. It was a game that the Foxes dominated, particularly in the first half, and they had several good opportunities to score. Nugent, Drinkwater, Dyer and Knockaert all had shots at goal during the first half. De Laet also went close with a header that struck the bar. Bolton came into the game more in the second half and will feel that they had several promising opportunities to win the game. It's a decent result for Leicester, against a strong team, who beat leaders Cardiff at home on Saturday.

Attention will now turn to Saturday lunch time's East Midlands derby with Nottingham Forest. The defensive situation is reaching a critical stage. St. Ledger is still injured, Konchesky left the field injured during the first half and loanee Keane was replaced by Moore during the second half. City finished the game with striker Jeff Schlupp at left back. On the plus side, Whitbread will return from a one match suspension and re-gain his place in the side. However, at the start of November, it is worrying that City appear to be down to the bare bones already. What price another Manchester United loanee arriving before the weekend?!

Keane to make the right impression

Manchester United teenager Michael Keane, who signed on a one month loan deal today, comes straight into Leicester's starting eleven for this evening's match at Bolton. He will partner Wes Morgan at centre back, in place of the suspended Whitbread and injured St. Ledger. It will be a huge test for the 19 year old against the strength of the experienced Kevin Davies. Attacking midfielder Jesse Lingard, also 19, has joined on a month's loan from United as well. He will be on the bench tonight.

The Leicester City team in full: Schmeichel, De Laet, Morgan, Keane, Konchesky, Knockaert, Drinkwater, King, Dyer, Nugent, Waghorn. On the bench: Logan, Moore, James, Lingard, Futacs, Marshall, Schlupp. Six players who have Manchester United connections (not including Schmeichel!)

Murdered at the Vicarage

Leicester turned in their worst performance of the season so far at Vicarage Road this afternoon and, in truth, were lucky to lose by a scoreline of 2-1 to Watford. Both of the hosts goals were scored by  players on loan from Udinese - Almen Abdi and Fernando Forestieri. Clearly manager Gianfranco Zola has attracted some talented players to the club. That said, Watford were not terribly impressive and Pearson will be disappointed with his team's performance. Leicester squandered possession of the ball too easily, seemed lacklustre in attack, left too many gaps at the back and were on the back foot for the majority of the game. It took just 14 minutes for Watford to take advantage of City's sloppy start to the game. Abdi struck the ball into the bottom left hand corner of the net from the edge of the penalty area. The Foxes never recovered and didn't look like getting back into the match, with just 3 attempts on target in the whole match.

Pearson had set Leicester up with five players across midfield. Knockaert and Marshall wide, with King, Drinkwater and James central. At half-time, Dyer replaced Drinkwater and Leicester reverted to four across midfield with Knockaert in a free role. It was the right move, although some would question whether Drinkwater should have been the man to make way. Just after the hour mark, two more substitutions followed. Marshall and Knockaert, two of Leicester's most creative players, were replaced by Waghorn and Futacs. It seemed a very strange move and was greeted with boos from the visiting supporters. Knockaert disappeared down the tunnel, only to return a few moments later, having been pursued by a member of the backroom staff. The changes didn't have the desired effect. Forestieri doubled Watford's lead from close range just five minutes later.

Nugent pulled a goal back for City with 20 minutes left on the clock. Konchesky clipped a clever cross to the back post, Nugent cut the ball back and fired home past Almunia. Leicester pushed for an equaliser but never looked like finding one and certainly didn't deserve to. Whitbread was sent off with 8 minutes remaining, and this will give the manager a defensive headache ahead of Tuesday's trip to Bolton. St. Ledger is still recovering from injury and Leicester's lack of defensive cover has been a concern all season. Wes Morgan was excellent again today and without him, the defeat could have been even heavier. Morgan will need to be at his absolute best on Tuesday night to help his side improve on a disappointing return of just 7 points from 7 away games this season.

Palace Prevail as Foxes Flounder

Crystal Palace earned a well deserved 2-1 victory over Leicester at the King Power Stadium this afternoon. The Eagles were strong, physical and well organised, with Zaha and Jedinak posing a potent threat throughout the first half in particular. Two Palace goals in 5 minutes, mid way through the first half, stunned City and left them with a mountain to climb. First, Schmeichel failed to deal with a corner in the 23rd minute, dropping the ball after colliding with his own player. Former Fox Damien Delaney fired home the loose ball to give the visitors the lead. Schmeichel's error may have affected his judgement for the corner which lead to the Eagles second goal. The ball was headed home by Ramage from the edge of the six yard box - Schmeichel was rooted to his line and perhaps should have challenged.

Pearson replaced Dyer with James on the half hour mark to try and sure up the midfield and to a certain extent it worked. James sat in front of the back four, allowing King and a disappointing Drinkwater to get forward more. Knockaert wasn't as effective as he has been in recent games either and City simply had too many players below par on the day. Having said that, the Foxes continued to press in the second half and certainly can't be criticised for a lack of effort. They came up against a better side on the day, as well as a referee who did them few favours. There were 4 good penalty shouts in the game, 3 of them to Leicester and if any had been awarded, it may have given the home side some impetus. As it was, King's 92nd minute goal was too little too late and didn't leave the Foxes enough time to draw level. It was a good finish from King, nodding home a super cross from Paul Konchesky.

Leicester will now rack up 450 miles with away trips to Watford next Saturday and Bolton the following Tuesday, two teams who are languishing in the bottom half of the Championship table. There may well be changes in personnel for those games. Marshall may be in line to replace Knockaert, who looked out of sorts today. Meanwhile, one of Waghorn, Schlupp or Futacs may deserve an opportunity to show what they can do in place of Jamie Vardy.

King's Power Maintains 100% Home Record

Andy King's tenth minute goal was enough to notch up Leicester's sixth successive home league win of the season and maintain their place at the top of the Championship table. It was a hard fought victory against a Brighton team who boast the meanest defence in the league, having only conceded 8 goals so far this term. King's goal came after an excellent run from Nugent down the left hand flank. He slipped the ball inside to King, who stroked the ball home at the second attempt. In truth, Leicester should have extended their lead and won the game more comfortably. Over the course of the game, they managed 16 shots at goal, with 12 on target.

Ten minutes into the second half, Brighton were awarded a very dubious penalty after Whitbread and Buckley collided into box. Both players had their arms raised and Whitbread was harshly penalised. Schmeichel made a superb save low to his left hand side and Morgan did enough with the follow-up to put off the penalty taker Barnes. The incident seemed to jolt Leicester into action and the Foxes were undoubtedly the better team for the remainder of the second half. City now welcome managerless Crystal Palace, who had a tough match at Barnsley this evening, to the King Power Stadium on Saturday. Another victory in that match really will underline Leicester's credentials as serious contenders for promotion.

Marshall Steers Leicester Top

A late Ben Marshall goal rescued a point for Leicester City at Birmingham City this afternoon. Leicester dominated the match and really should have beaten their Midlands rivals. They had 55% of the possession and managed 6 shots on goal to Birmingham's 3. However, Peter Lovenkrands put Birmingham 1-0 on the stroke of half-time after a cross from Marlon King. It was Birmingham's first real clear cut chance of the match. In the second half, Leicester continued to dominate. Towards the end of the game, three City substitutions finally did the trick. Marshall, Futacs and Vardy replaced Dyer, Knockaert and Waghorn. With just 4 minutes of the match remaining, Marshall's long range shot went in off the inside of the post to secure a draw.

With Cardiff and Wolves both losing and Crystal Palace only managing a draw, the result was enough to move Leicester top of the league on goal difference from Cardiff City. It also extended City's unbeaten run to 6 league games. After 5 successive victories, the international break could not have come at a worse time for Leicester. However, having battled to a draw at St. Andrew's this afternoon, and with two home games coming up this week, Pearson will be delighted with the position that the Foxes now find themselves in - top of the Championship pile.

Five Star Foxes!

Leicester recorded their fifth successive league victory this afternoon, to remain second in the Championship table. The 2-0 home victory over Bristol City is also the Foxes fifth home league win from five attempts so far this term. As the two week international break begins, Nigel Pearson will reflect on an excellent start to the season that has seen a return of 21 points from 10 games. City have also stopped leaking goals, with two successive clean sheets, which will stand them in good stead for the next phase of the season.

In truth, City were not at their best this afternoon. They dominated possession and passed the ball around well but didn't create as many clear cut chances as they might have expected. In the 19th minute, Nugent chased a Vardy through ball, which the defender should have dealt with comfortably. Nugent out-muscled his opposite number and fired past the Bristol City keeper. Bristol never looked like getting back into the match. The only surprise was that it took Leicester until the 74th minute to double their advantage. A clever forward run and cross from the excellent Andy King forced Richard Foster to head into his own net under pressure from the equally excellent David Nugent. Knockaert again was superb and Drinkwater controlled the midfield.

The only negative was what appeared to be a torn hamstring for Sean St. Ledger. Defensive cover continues to appear limited and St. Ledger has been a consistent performer this season. City will hope he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.

Anthony Knockout!

Anthony Knockaert scored two spectacular goals to give City a 2-0 victory at Huddersfield last night. The win, a fourth league victory in a row, lifts the Foxes into the Championship's automatic promotion places. The French winger opened the scoring after half an hour, driving a wonderful left footed shot home from at least 30 yards. Knockaert's second goal, on the hour mark, was arguably even better than his first effort. Konchesky crossed from the left and Knockaert flicked the ball from above waist height, with the back of his heel, into the open net from near the penalty spot. It was an incredible, audacious effort. The Foxes were well deserving of all 3 points and the manager will be particularly happy to have notched up another clean sheet. City now face Bristol City at home on Saturday - the Robins conceded three at home to Leeds Utd last night.

Dyer Deflection Beats Boro

An 89th minute deflected shot from Lloyd Dyer gave Leicester their first away victory of the season this afternoon and moved the Foxes up to 5th place in the Championship table. It looked like being another frustrating afternoon for Nigel Pearson's side as they dominated possession, created the best chances but still found themselves 1-0 down, five minutes into the second half. Middlesborough's Nicky Bailey hit a superb shot from long range to give the home side the lead, although Schmeichel will be disappointed to have been beaten from so far out. Vardy equalised for City just after the hour mark. As the 90th minute approached, Dyer's shot deflected over Boro keeper Jason Steele to give Leicester the victory.

That's 3 successive league wins for Leicester, who now find themselves just a point away from the top of the table. Things are starting to click into place for the Foxes, although the central midfield pairing of Drinkwater and James is a concern. They are very similar players and neither of them is going to make surging forward runs and score goals on a regular basis. It wouldn't be a surprise if King got the nod ahead of James for the next game. Pearson will be looking forward to Tuesday night's trip to Huddersfield, particularly as the Terriers conceded three goals at home to Watford this afternoon. With Vardy and Nugent both in form, City will hope that another positive result is on the cards. 

Nuge Win for Leicester!

David Nugent scored a superb hat-trick this afternoon, to secure a maximum 6 points from 2 home games this week, and move City up to seventh place in the Championship. Leicester have now won all four of their home league games this season - form that will delight manager Nigel Pearson. City started positively, putting visitors Hull on the back foot from the outset. Nugent latched onto a loose ball in the seventh minute, to fire a precise left footed shot into the corener of the net. Vardy squandered a couple of opportunities to double City's advantage before Simpson slid in to put Hull level. It was poor defending from Leicester, who have switched off at the back too often this season. However, three minutes before half time, Nugent headed home from six yards to restore the home side's lead.

In the second half, Leicester continued to dominate, creating the best chances and putting Hull City under pressure. 10 minutes before full time, Hull manager Steve Bruce was sent to the stands for verbally abusing the referee. To cap a miserable afternoon for the Hull manager, Nugent completed his perfect hat-trick in the final minute with a right footed finish. Leicester now face trips to Middlesborough and Huddersfield and will be hoping to find some form on the road to match their recent record at the King Power Stadium. Certainly Nugent's excellent form gives them reason to be optimistic about their prospects, as does the return of Andy King, who is sure to replace Matty James in the starting line-up next weekend.

Knock Knock Knockaert on Burnley's door!

Leicester moved to 10th place in the Championship with a hard fought victory over Burnley at the King Power stadium this evening. Burnley took a 10th minute lead when Marney finished off a neat move from the visitors. Leicester struggled to create clear cut opportunities for the remainder of the first half and there were boos as City went into the break 1-0 behind. A slight change in formation, bringing Knockaert into a more central position, paid dividends early in the second half. Nugent scored the equaliser just two minutes into the second half, stroking home a cross from the left hand side. Vardy's miss-hit cross gave Leicester a 2-1 lead just 10 minutes later. Knockaert was a threat throughout the match and his influence in the second half was arguably the different between the sides.

Sam Vokes should have rescued a point for Burnley in the 90th minute but failed to get the ball past a stranded Schmeichel. It demonstrates how fine the margins are at this stage of the season and how crucial this victory might prove to be. Leicester are into the top half of the table. Defeat this evening would have left them languishing in 20th position. Next up, Hull City at the King Power on Sunday. They are currently 4th in the table and will be determined to get one over on their old manager, Pearson. At least tonight's victory has afforded Nigel's men a little breathing space.

Wolves show Foxes who's top dog!

Two poor defensive errors, both from set pieces, cost Leicester City all three points at Wolverhampton Wanderers this afternoon. The home side were 2-0 up less than a quarter of the way through the match. Ebanks-Blake escaped the attentions of Paul Konchesky to head home a free kick in the 13th minute. Just 8 minutes later, another defensive lapse from De Laet allowed former City player Richard Stearman time to double the hosts advantage with a well executed volley. Schmeichel will also be disappointed with both goals, particularly the first, which was headed home from less than 6 yards. City pushed forward in the second half and squandered several good opportunities to score. A superb 40-yard strike from Paul Konchesky, 20 minutes from time, found the back of the net to halve the defecit. However, it proved to be just a consolation goal.

City have now lost 2-1 in all three away fixtures this season. They are languishing in 16th place in the Championship with just 6 points from 5 games. With 18 teams playing on Tuesday night, 24 hours before Leicester take to the field again, City are likely to slide even further down the table. It will be another crucial week for Nigel Pearson, with home fixtures to come against Burnley on Wednesday and Hull a week today. Anything less than 4 points from these two games will surely increase the pressure on the Leicester manager. As long as his team continue to leak soft goals, questions will persist about the strength of defensive cover in the squad. Sadly, after ten months in charge, they will not be easy questions for Pearson to answer.

Blackpool Pleasure Beached

Leicester ended Blackpool's unbeaten start to the season with a hard-fought 1-0 victory at the King Power Stadium this evening. The Foxes dominated from the outset and could have been a couple of goals up by half-time, with Vardy posing a real attacking threat to the visitors. Leicester had two penalty appeals turned away, before Vardy tumbled in the box ten minutes into the second half. It was a debatable penalty, although there was no doubt about Marshall's thumping strike from the spot. In truth, Leicester could have scored a couple more in the second half. Defensively, the Foxes will be delighted with how well they restricted Blackpool, who scored 6 against Ipswich last week, from creating many clear cut opportunities. City were clinging on in the last few minutes but were good value for the victory. The win moves them up to 9th place in the table with Blackpool remaining top.

Despite the win and the clean sheet, there must still be question marks about the defensive cover available to Leicester. With no defenders on the bench, City finished the match with the diminutive Paul Konchesky playing at centre back and striker Jeff Schlupp playing at left back. It's a worry that just 4 games into the season, Nigel Pearson is having to make do. When suspensions and injuries kick in, the shortage of squad cover in defensive positions may well come back to haunt Pearson. For now though, the manager will enjoy this victory and hope that the two week international break allows him enough time to get all of his defenders fully fit. Next up, a lunchtime match at Wolves on Sunday 16th September. No easy games in this league.

Hull Fixture Moved

Leicester City's home league match against Hull City has been put back 24 hours and will now take place on Sunday 23rd September at 3pm. This is to avoid a clash with Leicester Tigers.

Gone for a Burton?

This evening, Leicester City lost their third successive match for the first time since Paulo Sousa's reign. To make matters worse, it was a 4-2 home defeat against League Two side Burton Albion, who themselves have lost two of their first three league games this season. Pearson made 8 changes for the Capital One 2nd Round Cup game with only Schmeichel, De Laet and Konchesky keeping their places. Whitbread and St. Ledger returned from injury to form a new centre back partnership. Across midfield were Gallagher, James, Danns and Knockaert with Schlupp and Waghorn up-front. 

A 20th minute goal from midfielder Chris Palmer gave the visitors a 1-0 half-time lead. Eight minutes into the second half, Zak Whitbread failed to deal properly with a long ball, allowing Cleveland Taylor to steal a second goal for the visitors. Knockaert pulled one back on the hour mark with a good free-kick before Burton restored their two goal advantage from the penalty spot in the 64th minute. Just 4 minutes later, Maghoma scored an incredible 40-yarder to make the scoreline 4-1. Futacs grabbed a consolation goal three minutes from time, spectacularly hooking an innocuous cross. In 5 competetive matches so far this season, Leicester's 7 strikers have managed a total of just three goals, not a brilliant return at this stage.

It's a dangerous cocktail for Leicester at the moment. Defensive errors, missed opportunities, losing matches and uncertainty about what the strongest team is. It won't get any easier for manager Nigel Pearson. Next up, Saturday's visit from top of the table Blackpool, who have won all three league games so far, including a 6-0 demolition of Ipswich last weekend. Following that fixture, a fortnight's break. Pearson won't welcome that break unless City have managed to get back to winning ways against Blackpool. No pressure then Nigel but something seems to be broken and it needs to be fixed....quickly!

Any defence for summer transfer policy?

Leicester lost 2-1 away from home for the second time in a week at Blackburn this afternoon. Gomes gave the home side the lead after netting in the 33rd minute. Vardy then scored his first league goal for City, equalising just ten minutes in to the second half. However, Pedersen scored a superb winner 11 minutes from time to take all 3 points for the home side.  

Serious questions must now be asked about Nigel Pearson's transfer policy over the summer months. A former central defender himself, Pearson has sold four defenders - Mills, Bamba, Peltier and Parkes. Tunchev was also released. Over the same period, he has purchased two defenders - De Laet and Whitbread, the latter being particularly injury prone. Indeed, Whitbread is currently unavailable through injury. Morgan is an experienced campaigner but his current partner at centre-back, Liam Moore, had only made two senior appearances for the Foxes before the start of this season. The only other central defender at the club, St. Ledger, is a player that the manager fell out with last season and nearly sold to Ipswich! St. Ledger is also currently injured.

With a minimum of 49 games to play this season, you have to question whether City have the defensive strength-in-depth to mount a serious promotion challenge.  It is a sad state of affairs that, after just three games of the season, there wasn't a single defender on the substitute's bench for this afternoon's game at Blackburn. Liam Moore hobbled around for the final couple of minutes with nobody to replace him. Let's hope that Pearson signs another central defender before the transfer window closes on Friday. Perhaps he could exchange one of his 7 strikers?!

Team News - 25/8/12

As predicted on Tuesday, King replaces James and Nugent replaces Beckford for this afternoon's game at Blackburn. The full team is as follows: Schmeichel, Konchesky, Moore, Morgan, De Laet, Dyer, King, Drinkwater, Marshall, Vardy, Nugent. On the bench: Logan, Danns, James, Waghorn, Schlupp, Beckford, Knockaert. The only surprise for me is that there have been no changes at centre back. Having said that, are there any other fit centre backs at the club?

Capital Punishment Spoils Pearson's Party

Leicester have won just one of their last nine trips to London after this evening's 2-1 defeat to newly promoted Charlton. Wright-Phillips and Kermorgant (remember him?) put the home side two goals up in the 18th and 32nd minute respectively. Once more, Leicester improved in the second half and played much more positively. King scored from the bench for the second successive match and must surely start Saturday's league game at Blackburn. City had a hatful of chances in the final 15 minutes, Dyer, Nugent and Vardy should all of netted the equaliser. Vardy, in particular, will be disappointed with his injury time header from six yards, which went straight at the goalkeeper.

It was a worryingly familiar tale for Leicester - unable to finish the chances they created and signs of defensive frailty. There may well be several changes to the starting line-up for this weekend's trip to Ewood Park. King and Nugent have a strong case to replace James and Vardy or Beckford. However, central defence presents Pearson with his biggest headache. Liam Moore looks inexperienced and with St. Ledger and Whitbread still recovering from injury, there may have to be a reshuffle at the back. 

Both league games so far have been a tale of two halves. Poor in the first half and good in the second. As Pearson noted after the game, City need to "make sure we go into the next game on the front foot." It wasn't the 49th birthday that Pearson was hoping for but the best present he could get now would be 3 points on Saturday.

King Power Overwhelms Posh

Andy King's superb goal fifteen minutes from time secured all three points for City in their first home game of the season. The first half was cagey, perhaps due to the intense heat, and Peterborough dominated posession without threatening Kasper Schmeichel's goal. In the second half, Leicester took more of a grip on the game. Wes Morgan headed home Marshall's corner early in the second half after out-muscling the Peterborough defender. From that point on, the result was never really in doubt. City pushed forward, created chances and kept the ball for long periods.

Pearson made three substitutions in the second half, bringing on Knockaert, King and Nugent for Dyer, James and Beckford respectively. Within a minute of the final substitution, Leicester were 2-0 up. The impressive Vardy broke clear down the left hand side. His intelligent cross found King on the edge of the box, who sidefooted the ball powerfully into the top corner. It was a fabulous finish re-iterating King's case for a place in the starting line-up. With a bench of Danns, King, Waghorn, Schlupp and Nugent, the Foxes certainly have strength in depth to mount a serious campaign this season. If this first performance is a sign of things to come, there is every reason to be optimistic.

Leicester Torq a Good Game

Leicester put four goals past League Two side Torquay United last night to stroll into the second round of the Capital One League Cup. Lloyd Dyer beat the defender and the goalkeeper wih great individual skill to put the visitors 1-0 up in the 21st minute. Fifteen minutes later, Ben Marshall doubled the advantage with a superb free-kick. In the second half, two debutants also got onto the scoresheet. First, Matty James poked the ball home after an excellent through ball from Beckford. Jamie Vardy rounded things off with a well judged header, running onto Marshall's fifty yard cross from near the halfway line.

Leicester's starting line-up may well reflect Pearson's plans for the start of the Championship season. Vardy and Beckford started up front with a midfield of Dyer, Drinkwater, James and Marshall. Schmeichel kept goal behind a back four of De Laet, Morgan, Moore and Konchesky. It was an impressive performance, which bodes well for the Leicester's first home league game against Peterborough on Saturday. City have failed to win their first home league game for the last two consecutive seasons. Of course, Pearson wasn't in the dug-out for the start of either of those campaigns. He will be hoping that his team get off to a positive start this weekend.

Fixtures 2012/13

Leicester's fixtures for the new Championship season:

August

18th Peterborough (H)
21st Charlton (A)
25th Blackburn (A)

September

1st Blackpool (H)
15th Wolverhampton (A)
18th Burnley (H)
22nd Hull (H)
29th Middlesbrough (A)

October

2nd Huddersfield (A)
6th Bristol City (H)
20th Birmingham (A)
23rd Brighton (H)
27th Crystal Palace (H)

November

3rd Watford (A)
6th Bolton (A)
10th Nottm Forest (H)
17th Ipswich (H)
24th Sheff Wed (A)
27th Leeds (A)

December

1st Derby (H)
8th Barnsley (H)
15th Millwall (A)
22nd Cardiff (H)
26th Hull (A)
29th Burnley (A)

January

1st Huddersfield (H)
12th Bristol City (A)
19th Middlesbrough (H)
26th Cardiff (A)

February

2nd Wolverhampton (H)
9th Peterborough (A)
16th Blackburn (H)
19th Charlton (H)
23rd Blackpool (A)

March

2nd Ipswich (A)
5th Leeds (H)
9th Sheff Wed (H)
16th Derby (A)
30th Millwall (H)

April

1st Barnsley (A)
6th Brighton (A)
13th Birmingham (H)
16th Bolton (H)
20th Crystal Palace (A)
27th Watford (H)

May

4th Nottm Forest (A)

Please don't make us favourites!!

All Leicester City fans will shudder at the news that Bet365 and Ladbrokes have installed the club as favourites to win the Championship Title next season. The same happened last summer and that was a spectacular misjudgement! Let's hope they've got it right this time. Meanwhile, the club have announced a series of pre-season fixtures, culminating in the return of Martin O'Neill to the Walkers Stadium on Saturday 11th August. The full list is as follows:

Tuesday 24th July - (a) Hinckley United
Saturday 28th July - (a) Shrewsbury Town
Wednesday 1st August - (a) Burton Albion
Saturday 4th August - (a) Lincoln City
Saturday 11th August - (h) Sunderland

Fleetwood Star In, Deadwood Out!

Fleetwood striker Jamie Vardy has completed his move to the King Power Stadium. Although the fee has not been disclosed, it is believed that he has become the most expensive non-league player of all time, costing in the region of £1m. 25 year-old Vardy, who scored 34 goals last season in helping Fleetwood gain promotion to the Football League, had been a target for Nigel Pearson in the January transfer window. Meanwhile, Pearson has released six players today. Vassell, Howard, Tunchev, Oakley, Weale and Chamberlain have all been shown the door. They may not be the only departures this summer with rumours rife that Celtic are interested in signing out of favour Matt Mills. I suspect that if there is any truth in that rumour, Pearson will bite Neil Lennon's hand off.

Pearson Sets His Stall Out

Leicester have completed the signings of 23 year-old defender Ritchie De Laet and 20 year-old midfielder Matty James. The duo, both from Manchester United, have signed on 3 year contracts and the deal is believed to have cost Leicester City a total of £2 million. With Marshall and Drinkwater arriving last season, these signings fit in with Pearson's policy of bringing in young, relatively cheap and low profile players, who have impressed in loan spells at other clubs. It is the right policy to build for the future, rather than to bring in journeymen who are approaching the end of their careers. The squad is starting to take shape and the rumour is that Fleetwood Town's James Vardy is set to be the next arrival. To replace Beckford or to play along side him? My money is on replace!

Panayiot - who?

Academy product Harry Panayiotou scored a goal in the 3rd minute of injury time to snatch victory for Leicester at Elland Road this afternoon. Martyn Waghorn gave City the lead in the 39th minute with a cool finish from the edge of the box. It looked as though Leeds had rescued a point when Webber bundled the ball home 8 minutes from time. However, Panayiotou's deflection from Marshall's shot gave Leicester victory and secured a 9th place finish, 10 points adrift of a play-off place. Admittedly it was a meaningless fixture, but the names of the two goal scorers will please the manager. Waghorn has spent much of the season injured and Panayiotou has regularly impressed in the under-18s. Their presence in the team may be a positive sign for next season.

Those who call for wholesale changes are wide of the mark. Leicester are only 3 or 4 players away from making a challenge for the play-offs next term and Pearson has proved that he is capable of making good signings, particularly with the recent arrival of Marshall. Leicester's away form has been a major problem along with their inability to beat the teams below them in the table on a consistent basis. Leicester have averaged a respectable 1.38 points per game against the 8 teams above them this season. Against the teams below them, they have managed a less than satisfactory 1.47 points per game. City finished 10 points adrift of the play-offs yet, over the course of the season, dropped 12 points against the teams who finished in the bottom 4 places in the table. For many fans, that statistic sums up the season. Find a ruthless streak next season and anything is possible!

Collison Delivers Hammer Blow

Jack Collison scored a fabulous goal in the 58th minute to condemn Leicester City to defeat at the King Power Stadium this evening. The result, irrelevant to Leicester's fortunes this season, keeps West Ham's hopes of automatic promotion alive until the final day of the season. Leicester took the lead in the 34th minute after good work from Marshall down the right hand side. He chipped a beautiful cross to the far post and Beckford headed home for his 9th league goal of the season. Reid equalised for the visitors in the 39th minute to leave it 1-1 at the break. Collison's second-half thunderbolt was worthy of winning any football match and in truth, Schmeichel did well to get a hand on it.

Worryingly, both King and Wellens limped off during the match, the latter appearing on the bench with crutches during the second half. As a result, Bamba was forced into a central midfield role, exposing a staggering lack of depth in such an expensively assembled squad. In contrast, West Ham were excellent. They retained the ball well, passed it accurately and created a whole host of chances. They fully deserved the victory and secured what every Leicester City fan has dreamed of over recent weeks - something to play for on the final day of the season. All eyes will be on the games involving West Ham and Southampton next weekend, not many will pay too much attention to Leeds v Leicester.

Howe do you explain this one Nigel?

Nigel Pearson suggested in his post match interview that Eddie Howe's Burnley didn't come to the King Power Stadium in search of victory on Tuesday night. He stated, "I felt we were the team that tried to win the game." This seemed an odd assertion given that Burnley were going for a club record-equalling 11th away league victory of the season. The match statistics don't tally with Pearson's view either, as Burnley managed 5 attempts on target to Leicester's 4, including one unlucky effort which bounced off both posts. Pearson also admitted that Burnley were unlucky not to be awarded a penalty in the first half. The manager's body language was strange during the match too. He looked resigned and withdrawn with arms folded and he issued very few instructions to his team. In terms of tactics, there was no real plan B either. He changed personnel in a couple of like for like swaps in the second half and swapped the wingers over at half-time. However, there was no change of formation in an effort to win the game.

I was pleased when Pearson got the job and I still want him to be given the whole of next season to see what he can achieve. Morgan and Drinkwater look like decent signings and Marshall appears to be a steal at £1million. However, if the next two games follow the same pattern as last night's listless and lethargic effort, the Thai owners may well decide that enough is enough. I hope not. Pearson will already know the names of 2 or 3 players that he wishes to sign in the summer and that should be enough to give fresh impetus to the squad and see them in the play-off picture next season. All of this of course is based on the belief that the Thais have the desire to remain in charge and are still happy to put their hands in their pockets to sign more players. This should not be taken for granted. It may not be interesting on the pitch during the next two games but off the pitch it will be a different story!

Foxes Flop in the Lion's Den

Leicester went down 2-1 at Millwall this afternoon in a match that has ended any realistic chance of getting into the play-offs. Leicester will now have to win all 3 of their remaining fixtures and hope that all 3 of the teams above them lose at least two of their remaining three games. Even in this scenario, City would be relying on goal difference. This is simply not going to happen and Pearson can now start to plan for next season. It is a disappointing end to the season after two great wins over the Easter weekend had put Leicester right back in the hunt. The disappointing away form, as well as the poor form against struggling teams, has cost City on far too many occasions this season.

Leicester started the game brightly and it looked as though their attacking options would prove too much for Millwall to handle. However, a Harry Kane goal in the 23rd minute, from a dubious free kick, gave the home team the lead. After this, Leicester struggled to make much of an impact and created very few opportunities in the second half. An Andrew Keogh penalty, after a foul by Konchesky on Kane, doubled Millwall's lead 10 minutes into the second half and the game was won. A late Drinkwater strike offered the visitors hope of a late rally but the equaliser never materialised. In truth, a draw would have been of no consequence. Sadly, it's season over.

Leicester Egg-static after Easter Resurrection!

As one jubilant City fan said on BBC Radio Leicester after today's game, "If Jesus can come back from the dead at Easter, then so can Leicester City." With 6 points from two games over the Easter weekend, Leicester are right back in the hunt for the play-offs. The teams above them did City a favour yet again with Cardiff and Blackpool only managing draws, and Middlesborough losing their game. Brighton, the other rival for 6th place, face a tough game with Reading tomorrow. The gap is down to a tantalising 3 points with 4 games remaining. Interestingly, Leicester have the best goal difference of all the teams fighting for 6th place and this could yet be a factor in the final analysis. The fixtures may be important too. After a tough game at Millwall this Saturday, Leicester's final 3 games are against teams who may have little left to play for this season. Leeds and Burnley face mid-table obscurity and West Ham look likely to finish 3rd and may have switched their focus to a play-off semi final by the time they face City. This could all play into Leicester's hands for whom 3 wins out of 4 could still be enough. 


Leicester didn't play particularly well this afternoon but results are all that matter at this stage of the season. City went 1-0 down to a Jason Scotland goal in the 43 minute and looked destined to go into the break a goal behind. However, Ben Marshall scored his 4th goal from over 30 yards out in less than a month, thumping a free kick along the floor and into the net. It was the final action of the first half and it gave Leicester the impetus to go on and win the game in the second half. Pearson made two changes at the break, with Gallagher and King both entering the fray. Both made a significant contribution in the second half and could prove to be vital assets in the final four games after their successful returns from injury. The crucial winner came just before the hour mark, when Gallagher's perfect cross found Nugent, who headed home from 6 yards. Leiceter clung on for the win, their first league victory on the road since February. A win in the Lion's Den on Saturday and even the most pessimistic City fan will have to start dreaming of the play-offs.

Four Star Foxes Fight On!

It may surprise Leicester fans to know that City are 4th in the form guide over the last ten league games played. You wouldn't know it listening to the 'fans' calling for the manager's head on the phone-ins. Leicester's home form is outstanding and Ben Marshall, a recent signing of Pearson's, gets better and better with every game. He scored his third brilliant goal in as many weeks this afternoon and Leicester will do well to hold on to him next season if they are still in the Championship. City would need to win 4 of the last 5 games to have any chance of making the play-offs, a highly unlikely target given the way this season has panned out. However, the signs do look promising for next term and Leicester are only 3-4 players away from making a serious challenge next term. Judging by the £1 million Marshall, the Thais can be confident that Pearson would spend their money wisely.

Leicester swept Doncaster aside with 3 second half goals this afternoon. In truth, the first half was poor and Leicester gifted bottom of the table Doncaster several chances to score. Shortly after the half hour, Nugent headed down for Drinkwater to hit a left footed shot into the net. Early in the second half, Doncaster keeper Ikeme allowed a tame Peltier shot to squirm through his legs, gifting City a second goal. After that, City were comfortable. In the last 15 minutes, Gallagher and Marshall scored fabulous goals to give the Foxes a flattering 4-0 scoreline. Wellens, King and Gallagher all returned from injury with the latter two playing for the final half hour. With another game on Monday, this is a timely boost and may give Leicester the impetus to win at Ipswich in less than 48 hours time. Leicester are 5 points adrift with 5 to play and they certainly haven't given up fighting yet...

Beckford's Backlash May See Him Banished

Leicester lost 1-0 at Peterborough this afternoon in a match that will be remembered by City fans for one incident. In the second minute of injury time, Jermaine Beckford chased back to his own goal line in an attempt to win back the ball. He remonstrated with his defenders, clearly frustrated by the situation in the match. Moments later, Richie Wellens won a free kick on the edge of Peterborough's box. It was the final chance for the Foxes to salvage a point from the match. Beckford stood in the centre circle, apparently refusing to go forward for the free kick. It was a move that infuriated the manager as well as the thousands of fans who travelled to Peterborough, and spend their hard earned cash contributing towards the player's wages.

Many will feel that Beckford's actions were unforgiveable and that he should never be allowed to wear the shirt again. Given Pearson's record in dealing with St. Ledger and Mills this season, it would not be a surprise to see Beckford omitted from the squad for the match against Doncaster on Easter Saturday. For the record, Paul Taylor scored a fabulous goal with a long distance strike on the hour mark to win the game for the home side. Leicester have secured 1 point out a possible 12 in their last 4 games on the road. Contrast that with 13 points out of a possible 15 from their last 5 home games. It is easy to see where the play-off charge has come unstuck.

Forest's Fight Frustrates Foxes

Leicester recorded only their third 0-0 league draw of the season against local rivals Nottingham Forest on Tuesday night. The result leaves City 4 points away from a play-off place and, although this result seems like a missed opportunity, Leicester are edging steadily towards the top 6. With the next 5 league games against teams below City in the table, the Foxes must find a way to win 3 successive games in order to put themselves in the frame before their final two matches against West Ham and Leeds. The squad looks thin, with Bamba forced to play a central midfield role against Forest. However, King's appearance on the bench, along with Wellens expected return this weekend, provides Leicester with a much needed boost. With 8 games already completed in March and a trip to Peterborough on Saturday, the more options Pearson has at his disposal, the better.

The manager was upbeat and confident in his post-match interview, discussing the 6 point gap to 4th place and pointing to a fixture list which sees many of the top 6 playing against each other before the end of the season. Let's hope the players share his optimism and can record their first away victory for 5 weeks at Peterborough on Saturday. With 13 points from a possible 15 at home, victories on the road could yet be crucial.

Home Form Keeps Foxes in the Hunt

Leicester secured their 4th successive home league win with a 2-1 victory over Hull City at the King Power Stadium this afternoon. The result leaves City 5 points adrift of a play-off place and keeps their season alive. The teams above Leicester are doing everything they can to keep City in the hunt for 6th place. With a home game against local rivals Nottingham Forest on Tuesday night and a trip to 18th placed Peterborough a week today, Leicester now have a great opportunity to put pressure on the teams above them. If the Foxes can secure victories in their next two fixtures, their play-off charge will be well and truly back on track. At this stage of the season, it is all about a momentum and it's the perfect time to put 3 successive league victories together for the first time this term.

City conceded an early goal to old boy Matt Fryatt, who ran on to a perfectly weighted through ball and clipped a shot past a reticent Kasper Schmeichal. Two superb goals in the space of a minute turned the game on its head and credit must go to Pearson for the formation and tactics. Dyer, who put in an outstanding performance, cut in from the right to fire the equaliser into the bottom corner. Moments later, Ben Marshall smashed a 25-yard shot into the net. Marhsall was brilliant throughout, playing just behind Beckford, but with the freedom to roam. Nugent played wide left and supported Beckford at every opportunity. The fluidity of Leicester's attacking play caused problems for the meanest defence in the league throughout the afternoon. Danns was shown a red card for a dangerous tackle 12 minutes into the second half but Hull rarely threatened Leicester's goal and City were good value for the victory.

No Defence For Recent Away Run

Tonight's 3-3 draw at Blackpool epitomised Leicester City's performances on the road over the last two months. City have conceded 19 goals in 8 away games since the start of February, with 14 coming in the last 4 games. This will be hard to accept for a manager who was known as a no-nonsense centre half and who built a very solid defensive unit during his last spell in charge of the Foxes. The manager has been scathing in his criticism of the defence in recent weeks and has shuffled the pack regularly. As yet, he has been unable to find a successful formula. If Pearson is still in charge over the summer, defenders will certainly be top of the shopping list.

The most frustrating aspect is that, going forward, Leicester look like an excellent side. Beckford now has 14 goals this season and is starting to fulfill his potential, forging a great partnership with Nugent. Marshall is an exciting prospect - a wonder goal at Chelsea on Sunday and a fabulous cross with his first touch tonight, which lead to Beckford's second goal. Danns looks dynamic in the centre of midfield and Drinkwater's performances so far are promising. The nucleus of a good team is emerging and Pearson will get it right. Throwing the baby out with the bathwater, by starting all over again with new management and a new squad, would be an unmitigated disaster.