A couple of months ago, I promised to update an old article with new signings as and when they arrived at the club. However, transfers dried up a little after Yuki Abe and Martyn Waghorn signed for Leicester City, so here’s a look at the newest loan additions to the squad since Sven-Goran Eriksson took charge.
Name: Kyle Naughton
Age: 21
Position: Right back
Transfer fee: n/a (on loan from Tottenham Hotspur until January 2011)
Last season:
After signing from Sheffield United in 2009, Naughton only featured once as a substitute for Tottenham Hotspur last season. He had a six month loan spell with Middlesborough from February 2010, playing in fifteen games.
First thoughts:
An bit of an unknown quantity unless seen playing during the 2008/09 season for Sheffield United, where he was voted Young Player of the Year by fans, and runner up Senior Player of the Year.
Who does he replace?
Robbie Neilson and Michael Lamey, who both featured during Paulo Sousa’s time in charge. Michael Morrison may also find that his opportunities become more limited as a result of a more experienced right back entering the fray.
What can he bring to Leicester City?
Known for his blistering pace, Naughton offers an attacking option as an overlapping full back which suits Eriksson’s preferred 4-4-2 formation, especially with Lloyd Dyer and Dany N’Guessan both currently sidelined. More importantly, the former England under-21 man has already demonstrated great composure in defence. Scoring in Leicester’s 2-1 away win over Leeds United will give him extra confidence.
Transfer rating: 8/10
Name: Curtis Davies
Age: 25
Position: Centre back
Transfer fee: n/a (on loan from Aston Villa for one month)
Last season:
Davies started 37 games for Villa under Martin O’Neill, scoring two goals in the process. However, he struggled to keep his place in the team after undergoing shoulder surgery in October 2009, as well as facing strong competition in the Villa defence from both Richard Dunne and James Collins.
First thoughts:
A very good signing, should he be able to stay injury free.
Who does he replace?
The hole in the defence left by the loss of Wayne Brown last season, which Paulo Sousa never really addressed during the summer.
What can he bring to Leicester City?
Although only 25 years of age, Davies offers experience to a mostly youthful set of defenders. He is a gifted footballer but still happy to do the dirty work in defence and offers physical prowess and good aerial ability. The addition of Davies is likely to allow Jack Hobbs to play in the style he did last season, rather than filling in as the brawn of the two centre backs. If he can stay healthy, Davies should start every game for the next month.
Transfer rating: 9/10
Name: Darius Vassell
Age: 30
Position: Striker/Winger
Transfer fee: n/a (free agent)
Last season:
Vassell spent last season with Turkish side MKE Ankaragücü, scoring four times in 25 appearances.
First thoughts: Questions as to whether he still has the pace he previously demonstrated in the Premier League and at international level.
Who does he replace? Nobody in particular, although he does provide added depth amongst Leicester's strikers. Vassell could feature as a winger should Erikkson ever adopt a 4-3-3 or 4-5-1 formation.
What can he bring to Leicester City?
At the very least, Vassell offers experience to some of the younger attacking players, having formerly played for Aston Villa, Manchester City and England. Having played for Eriksson at the aforementioned latter two clubs, Vassell may be able to rediscover his previous good form in English football. He won’t be match fit for another week or so, but will be interesting to see how he fares in the Championship. This one could go either way.
Transfer rating: 7/10
Wednesday, 20 October 2010
Sunday, 17 October 2010
Leicester City 1 - 1 Hull City - 16th October 2010
Robert Koren’s second half goal was enough to earn Hull City a point at the Walkers Stadium and spoil new Leicester boss Sven-Goran Eriksson’s home debut.
Andy King’s fifth goal of the season put the hosts ahead in just the third minute, but Robert Koren’s fine strike five minutes after half-time ensured that the points were shared in a heated match which featured the return of former Foxes manager Nigel Pearson to the Walkers Stadium.
Both of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s recently acquired loanees Kyle Naughton and Curtis Davies featured in the starting line-up for the Foxes, who both signed for Leicester this week.
Leicester dominated the first half and were ahead after three minutes through Andy King after some excellent work from Richie Wellens and Matt Oakley played the Welshman in behind the Hull defence, and was able to find a way past Matt Duke despite the goalkeeper getting a hand to the ball.
King was again involved minutes later when his cross was met by the head of Martyn Waghorn in the penalty area, who forced an excellent save from Duke.
From the ensuing corner, Curtis Davies – on loan from Aston Villa – was unlucky not to double Leicester’s lead with a solid header which drifted back across goal.
Kyle Naughton – also on loan at Leicester, this time from Tottenham – looked very assured as he pushed forward to cross the ball to Steve Howard at the back post, who headed back to Andy King whose goal-bound effort was blocked by fellow Welsh international Anthony Gerrard.
Bruno Berner’s long range shot just before half-time had Duke at full stretch again, but the full-back’s effort ran just wide of the far post.
Hull were a completely different side in the second half, and they were level within minutes after the restart with their first real chance of the game as Robert Koren’s superb long range strike could only be parried into the net by returning Foxes keeper Chris Weale after the Leicester defence failed to close down the Slovenian.
The visitors were the better side for most of the second half, creating a number of good chances to go ahead, as Mark Cullen’s volley from a route one goal kick flew just over the crossbar.
Some last ditch defending by Bruno Berner thwarted Caleb Folan at the back post as Hull continued to press, with the Swiss international just doing enough to put the ball behind for a corner at the back post to avoid a certain goal.
The game twisted and turned in the latter stages of the half with both sides looking for a winner, as Leicester substitute Franck Moussa’s corner found Jack Hobbs at the back post, his header lacked power and was saved by Matt Duke.
At the other end, Chris Weale was forced to make a near post save from a Kevin Kilbane header with fifteen minutes remaining.
As time began to run out, Paul Gallagher had a great chance to put the Foxes ahead after the Hull defence failed to deal with a Martyn Waghorn corner, but the ball bounced up just before his strike, and his shot sailed over the bar from close range.
Leicester piled on the pressure in the dying minutes as Bruno Berner’s shot was blocked in the six yard box after another Waghorn corner, but could not find a way through despite four minutes of added time.
The final whistle meant that both sides would have to settle for a draw, as both managers – each seeming fairly pleased with a point – left the pitch to a standing ovation from the fans.
Man of the Match – Curtis Davies
Andy King’s fifth goal of the season put the hosts ahead in just the third minute, but Robert Koren’s fine strike five minutes after half-time ensured that the points were shared in a heated match which featured the return of former Foxes manager Nigel Pearson to the Walkers Stadium.
Both of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s recently acquired loanees Kyle Naughton and Curtis Davies featured in the starting line-up for the Foxes, who both signed for Leicester this week.
Leicester dominated the first half and were ahead after three minutes through Andy King after some excellent work from Richie Wellens and Matt Oakley played the Welshman in behind the Hull defence, and was able to find a way past Matt Duke despite the goalkeeper getting a hand to the ball.
King was again involved minutes later when his cross was met by the head of Martyn Waghorn in the penalty area, who forced an excellent save from Duke.
From the ensuing corner, Curtis Davies – on loan from Aston Villa – was unlucky not to double Leicester’s lead with a solid header which drifted back across goal.
Kyle Naughton – also on loan at Leicester, this time from Tottenham – looked very assured as he pushed forward to cross the ball to Steve Howard at the back post, who headed back to Andy King whose goal-bound effort was blocked by fellow Welsh international Anthony Gerrard.
Bruno Berner’s long range shot just before half-time had Duke at full stretch again, but the full-back’s effort ran just wide of the far post.
Hull were a completely different side in the second half, and they were level within minutes after the restart with their first real chance of the game as Robert Koren’s superb long range strike could only be parried into the net by returning Foxes keeper Chris Weale after the Leicester defence failed to close down the Slovenian.
The visitors were the better side for most of the second half, creating a number of good chances to go ahead, as Mark Cullen’s volley from a route one goal kick flew just over the crossbar.
Some last ditch defending by Bruno Berner thwarted Caleb Folan at the back post as Hull continued to press, with the Swiss international just doing enough to put the ball behind for a corner at the back post to avoid a certain goal.
The game twisted and turned in the latter stages of the half with both sides looking for a winner, as Leicester substitute Franck Moussa’s corner found Jack Hobbs at the back post, his header lacked power and was saved by Matt Duke.
At the other end, Chris Weale was forced to make a near post save from a Kevin Kilbane header with fifteen minutes remaining.
As time began to run out, Paul Gallagher had a great chance to put the Foxes ahead after the Hull defence failed to deal with a Martyn Waghorn corner, but the ball bounced up just before his strike, and his shot sailed over the bar from close range.
Leicester piled on the pressure in the dying minutes as Bruno Berner’s shot was blocked in the six yard box after another Waghorn corner, but could not find a way through despite four minutes of added time.
The final whistle meant that both sides would have to settle for a draw, as both managers – each seeming fairly pleased with a point – left the pitch to a standing ovation from the fans.
Man of the Match – Curtis Davies
Friday, 15 October 2010
Why Nigel Pearson's return to the Walkers Stadium should be a welcome one
With all of the goings on at the Walkers Stadium over the last two weeks; the departure of boss Paulo Sousa and subsequent arrival of new manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, Leicester’s successful mid-season tour of Thailand and new signings on the way, the return of Nigel Pearson to his former club tomorrow afternoon has not been as much on the radar as one might have initially anticipated at the commencement of this Championship season.
Pearson left Leicester during the summer after apparent fallings out behind the scenes, and despite various statements being released, the rumour mill churning out various stories and the former Foxes manager actually being interviewed on BBC Radio Leicester recently, the fans are still unsure as to the real reason for his exit. His departure left most fans confused, more than anything else. It was difficult to understand why the man who led Leicester to two successful seasons would seemingly ‘leave’ for pastures new at Hull City. Did he walk? Was he pushed? Who did he fall out with – and over what?
Nigel Pearson said in that interview that he felt the club did not do enough to keep him, although it hardly answers all questions. Pearson – now with Hull City, Leicester’s next opponents - always kept his cards held close to his chest, and so fans may never know the full extent of what happened. But that should not stop the Blue Army faithful from welcoming him with a standing ovation.
In recent years, many have come and gone through the revolving door that is the position of Leicester City manager. But few – if any, since the days of Martin O’Neill – have made such an impact as Nigel Pearson did during his two years at the helm.
After relegation to the third tier of English football for the first time in the club’s history, Pearson led Leicester to promotion back into the Championship and to the playoffs during the subsequent season – the club’s best finish in that division since 2003. He signed players like Lloyd Dyer, Richie Wellens, Jack Hobbs and Chris Weale who are now fan favourites. He turned the Walkers Stadium into a fortress, only losing five times at home in two seasons. He gave very little away, never playing into the hands of interviewers – yet acted like a true professional at all times and acted decisively during games without cracking under the pressure. Most importantly, he gave Foxes fans a sense of optimism that good things were happening. And that should be appreciated.
There is no doubt that the most important thing for Foxes fans tomorrow is that Leicester beat Hull City, take three points and start climbing the Championship table as quickly as possible. There is a huge mountain to climb in terms of getting this season back on track. But before kick-off, and whilst this may not fit the protocol regarding managers returning to former clubs, I hope Nigel Pearson gets the welcome back tomorrow he truly deserves.
Pearson left Leicester during the summer after apparent fallings out behind the scenes, and despite various statements being released, the rumour mill churning out various stories and the former Foxes manager actually being interviewed on BBC Radio Leicester recently, the fans are still unsure as to the real reason for his exit. His departure left most fans confused, more than anything else. It was difficult to understand why the man who led Leicester to two successful seasons would seemingly ‘leave’ for pastures new at Hull City. Did he walk? Was he pushed? Who did he fall out with – and over what?
Nigel Pearson said in that interview that he felt the club did not do enough to keep him, although it hardly answers all questions. Pearson – now with Hull City, Leicester’s next opponents - always kept his cards held close to his chest, and so fans may never know the full extent of what happened. But that should not stop the Blue Army faithful from welcoming him with a standing ovation.
In recent years, many have come and gone through the revolving door that is the position of Leicester City manager. But few – if any, since the days of Martin O’Neill – have made such an impact as Nigel Pearson did during his two years at the helm.
After relegation to the third tier of English football for the first time in the club’s history, Pearson led Leicester to promotion back into the Championship and to the playoffs during the subsequent season – the club’s best finish in that division since 2003. He signed players like Lloyd Dyer, Richie Wellens, Jack Hobbs and Chris Weale who are now fan favourites. He turned the Walkers Stadium into a fortress, only losing five times at home in two seasons. He gave very little away, never playing into the hands of interviewers – yet acted like a true professional at all times and acted decisively during games without cracking under the pressure. Most importantly, he gave Foxes fans a sense of optimism that good things were happening. And that should be appreciated.
There is no doubt that the most important thing for Foxes fans tomorrow is that Leicester beat Hull City, take three points and start climbing the Championship table as quickly as possible. There is a huge mountain to climb in terms of getting this season back on track. But before kick-off, and whilst this may not fit the protocol regarding managers returning to former clubs, I hope Nigel Pearson gets the welcome back tomorrow he truly deserves.
Thursday, 7 October 2010
Sven-Göran Eriksson: can the former England boss take Leicester City to the top?
It is without question that the dismissal of former boss Paulo Sousa, followed by the somewhat hasty signing of former England manager Sven-Göran Eriksson, has rocked the boat at Leicester City. His unsuccessful stint as the director of football at Notts County left little to be desired, resulting in Eriksson leaving the club within a matter of months last season. Therefore it is unsurprising that Foxes fans are hardly bowled over with this new managerial appointment.
However, I believe that there is reason to be more optimistic. I agree with Milan Mandaric’s justification behind the sacking of Paulo Sousa last week. Sousa is a classy guy and he did have potential. Leicester City played exciting, attacking football under him which was very refreshing to see, and the argument can quickly be made that nine league games is not a long enough time period for any manager to make his mark on a football club (bearing in mind he also won three cup games in the two months he was at the Walkers Stadium). But the defence was uncharacteristically bad. 22 goals were conceded in nine games. Last season under Nigel Pearson, Leicester only conceded 45 goals all season with essentially the same group of defenders. While some players were excelling under Sousa’s attacking style of football, others such as Jack Hobbs and Michael Morrison began to look increasingly uncomfortable, resulting on too much pressure being put on more attacking players to overcome an almost inevitable deficit in every game.
How long can a chairman sit and wait before the season becomes seriously damaged – considering the expectations after last season? If Milan Mandaric had waited until Christmas before finding a new manager - with Sousa’s style showing no signs of improvement – he would have been criticised by the fans for waiting too long. Mandaric was in a very difficult situation, and he had to make a difficult decision. As cruel as it may be, it is easier to replace your manager than it is to replace a large number of players – especially when said players have such talent and potential, as has been demonstrated over the previous two seasons.
But the decision to bring Eriksson in seems as though it could have been in the pipeline long before Sousa’s final two games in charge against Portsmouth and Norwich, which is unfair. Sousa had a plan for this club, and Mandaric was well aware of that plan when he offered him the position. But Mandaric has said on countless occasions that he is willing to do whatever it takes to bring success to Leicester City, and sitting at the bottom of the Championship after almost a quarter of the season is not a good place to be. Although there is still a long way to go in this Championship campaign, a change had to be made to bring success to this season.
Like many others, I don’t strictly disapprove of the appointment of Eriksson. As mentioned earlier, he has managed at international level, and in the Premier League, and thus has a great deal of experience in English football. Mandaric has also been criticised for his selection, it being labelled as a publicity stunt by fans and the media. However, Aiyawatt Raksriaksorn and the other members of the Thai-based consortium who own the club would have had as much input regarding the hiring of Eriksson as the chairman did. If that is the case, then this is not so much a publicity stunt as it is the owners showing intolerance to failure, and an expectation of good results. Whilst Mandaric has demonstrated a track record for showing impatience with managers at times, if the decision had been purely down to him, Paulo Sousa probably would have been given more time at the helm. The possibility, therefore, that the new ownership could once again in a quick turnover of managers – as experienced during the 2007/2008 season – is a realistic one.
I also worry that Eriksson could flood his backroom with outside names, having already brought in Derek Fazackerley, whom he worked with during his time at Manchester City. This could potentially force out coaches, and current stand-in managers, Chris Powell and Mike Stowell. This would be a huge mistake. As can be demonstrated by the way Leicester bounced back against Scunthorpe United at the weekend, many of the players have a great connection with both of these coaches, and the club itself is lucky to have them as part of the backroom staff. Both have also expressed their interest in staying at the club, and Eriksson would do well to keep them around to help with the development of the first team players, and also to gain the trust and support of the Blue Army faithful.
Life is never dull as a Leicester City supporter, and once again the club appears to be headed for uncertain times. However, fans should not necessarily be pessimistic. The squad is still very strong, and as far as league position goes, the only way is up. If Eriksson can get the best from these players then he could be on to a winner. If they don’t respond, then his time at the Walkers Stadium – like Paulo Sousa – could be short lived. The jury is still out on this appointment, but Eriksson certainly has the potential to bring this football club back to winning ways.
However, I believe that there is reason to be more optimistic. I agree with Milan Mandaric’s justification behind the sacking of Paulo Sousa last week. Sousa is a classy guy and he did have potential. Leicester City played exciting, attacking football under him which was very refreshing to see, and the argument can quickly be made that nine league games is not a long enough time period for any manager to make his mark on a football club (bearing in mind he also won three cup games in the two months he was at the Walkers Stadium). But the defence was uncharacteristically bad. 22 goals were conceded in nine games. Last season under Nigel Pearson, Leicester only conceded 45 goals all season with essentially the same group of defenders. While some players were excelling under Sousa’s attacking style of football, others such as Jack Hobbs and Michael Morrison began to look increasingly uncomfortable, resulting on too much pressure being put on more attacking players to overcome an almost inevitable deficit in every game.
How long can a chairman sit and wait before the season becomes seriously damaged – considering the expectations after last season? If Milan Mandaric had waited until Christmas before finding a new manager - with Sousa’s style showing no signs of improvement – he would have been criticised by the fans for waiting too long. Mandaric was in a very difficult situation, and he had to make a difficult decision. As cruel as it may be, it is easier to replace your manager than it is to replace a large number of players – especially when said players have such talent and potential, as has been demonstrated over the previous two seasons.
But the decision to bring Eriksson in seems as though it could have been in the pipeline long before Sousa’s final two games in charge against Portsmouth and Norwich, which is unfair. Sousa had a plan for this club, and Mandaric was well aware of that plan when he offered him the position. But Mandaric has said on countless occasions that he is willing to do whatever it takes to bring success to Leicester City, and sitting at the bottom of the Championship after almost a quarter of the season is not a good place to be. Although there is still a long way to go in this Championship campaign, a change had to be made to bring success to this season.
Like many others, I don’t strictly disapprove of the appointment of Eriksson. As mentioned earlier, he has managed at international level, and in the Premier League, and thus has a great deal of experience in English football. Mandaric has also been criticised for his selection, it being labelled as a publicity stunt by fans and the media. However, Aiyawatt Raksriaksorn and the other members of the Thai-based consortium who own the club would have had as much input regarding the hiring of Eriksson as the chairman did. If that is the case, then this is not so much a publicity stunt as it is the owners showing intolerance to failure, and an expectation of good results. Whilst Mandaric has demonstrated a track record for showing impatience with managers at times, if the decision had been purely down to him, Paulo Sousa probably would have been given more time at the helm. The possibility, therefore, that the new ownership could once again in a quick turnover of managers – as experienced during the 2007/2008 season – is a realistic one.
I also worry that Eriksson could flood his backroom with outside names, having already brought in Derek Fazackerley, whom he worked with during his time at Manchester City. This could potentially force out coaches, and current stand-in managers, Chris Powell and Mike Stowell. This would be a huge mistake. As can be demonstrated by the way Leicester bounced back against Scunthorpe United at the weekend, many of the players have a great connection with both of these coaches, and the club itself is lucky to have them as part of the backroom staff. Both have also expressed their interest in staying at the club, and Eriksson would do well to keep them around to help with the development of the first team players, and also to gain the trust and support of the Blue Army faithful.
Life is never dull as a Leicester City supporter, and once again the club appears to be headed for uncertain times. However, fans should not necessarily be pessimistic. The squad is still very strong, and as far as league position goes, the only way is up. If Eriksson can get the best from these players then he could be on to a winner. If they don’t respond, then his time at the Walkers Stadium – like Paulo Sousa – could be short lived. The jury is still out on this appointment, but Eriksson certainly has the potential to bring this football club back to winning ways.
Saturday, 18 September 2010
Leicester City 0 - 2 Queens Park Rangers - 18th September 2010
QPR extended their lead at the top of the Championship this afternoon with a 2-0 victory over Leicester City at the Walkers Stadium.
Two goals from the in-form Jamie Mackie were enough to give QPR their sixth win in seven games, and pile more pressure on the struggling Foxes.
Leicester will have felt aggrieved to have not been awarded a second half penalty after substitute Steve Howard was involved in a clash which left him with blood pouring from his nose, which might have changed the game with the score still just 1-0.
However, another loss meant that Paulo Sousa’s men now find themselves in the bottom three again after another disappointing result.
Jamie Mackie opened the scoring for the away side in the twelfth minute when Adel Taarabt picked out the former Plymouth striker with a precise ball into the penalty area, who headed past goalkeeper Carl Ikeme to net his seventh goal in as many league games and continue his blistering start to the season.
The goal left Leicester falling behind in yet another game, leaving them with a mountain to climb against Neil Warnock’s men, who are still yet to be beaten in the league this season.
Chances were few and far between for Leicester in the first half, although Martyn Waghorn came closest with a powerful header from a quick Richie Wellens free kick, and shortly after with a near post shot which was saved at point blank range by goalkeeper Paddy Kenny.
The turning point in the match came in the second half when substitute Steve Howard – the only change to Leicester’s starting eleven from Tuesday night’s 2-1 win over Cardiff City - appeared to receive an elbow to the face in the penalty area following an aerial clash with the QPR defence.
However, the official quickly waved away any protests from the home side, despite the incident requiring the bloodied Howard to leave the pitch for treatment and a change of shirt.
As the intensity of the match began to build, Leicester came close to equalising when Andy King’s fine strike from twenty yards was well-matched by Paddy Kenny who parried the ball away at full stretch.
But QPR put the game to bed with a goal which came against the run of play, as Jamie Mackie found himself one on one against defender Michael Morrison, before firing past Ikeme into the bottom corner for his second goal of the game, and eighth of the season.
Although seven minutes of injury time were added on at the end of the match, Leicester failed to turn possession into any further goal scoring opportunities, allowing QPR to see the game out and extend their lead at the top of the table to five points, and condemning Leicester to their fourth defeat in seven in the Championship.
Man of the Match – Jamie Mackie
Two goals from the in-form Jamie Mackie were enough to give QPR their sixth win in seven games, and pile more pressure on the struggling Foxes.
Leicester will have felt aggrieved to have not been awarded a second half penalty after substitute Steve Howard was involved in a clash which left him with blood pouring from his nose, which might have changed the game with the score still just 1-0.
However, another loss meant that Paulo Sousa’s men now find themselves in the bottom three again after another disappointing result.
Jamie Mackie opened the scoring for the away side in the twelfth minute when Adel Taarabt picked out the former Plymouth striker with a precise ball into the penalty area, who headed past goalkeeper Carl Ikeme to net his seventh goal in as many league games and continue his blistering start to the season.
The goal left Leicester falling behind in yet another game, leaving them with a mountain to climb against Neil Warnock’s men, who are still yet to be beaten in the league this season.
Chances were few and far between for Leicester in the first half, although Martyn Waghorn came closest with a powerful header from a quick Richie Wellens free kick, and shortly after with a near post shot which was saved at point blank range by goalkeeper Paddy Kenny.
The turning point in the match came in the second half when substitute Steve Howard – the only change to Leicester’s starting eleven from Tuesday night’s 2-1 win over Cardiff City - appeared to receive an elbow to the face in the penalty area following an aerial clash with the QPR defence.
However, the official quickly waved away any protests from the home side, despite the incident requiring the bloodied Howard to leave the pitch for treatment and a change of shirt.
As the intensity of the match began to build, Leicester came close to equalising when Andy King’s fine strike from twenty yards was well-matched by Paddy Kenny who parried the ball away at full stretch.
But QPR put the game to bed with a goal which came against the run of play, as Jamie Mackie found himself one on one against defender Michael Morrison, before firing past Ikeme into the bottom corner for his second goal of the game, and eighth of the season.
Although seven minutes of injury time were added on at the end of the match, Leicester failed to turn possession into any further goal scoring opportunities, allowing QPR to see the game out and extend their lead at the top of the table to five points, and condemning Leicester to their fourth defeat in seven in the Championship.
Man of the Match – Jamie Mackie
Wednesday, 15 September 2010
Leicester City 2 - 1 Cardiff - 14th September 2010
Two second half goals from Andy King gave Paulo Sousa his first league win as Leicester City manager at the expense of high flying Cardiff.
The visitors took the lead in the first half when Lee Naylor’s bizarre cross-turned-shot deceived everyone - including Leicester goalkeeper Carl Ikeme who was caught off his line.
But the Foxes struck back through Andy King who made a late run into the penalty area to head home Richie Wellens’ cross.
King scored his second of the night seventeen minutes later with a superb curling strike, condemning Cardiff to their first loss of the season.
The win demonstrated that any bad memories from the end of last season when Cardiff dumped Leicester out of the play-offs on penalties had certainly been vanquished.
The match saw Martyn Waghorn’s return to the Walkers Stadium, who spent last season with Leicester on loan from Sunderland, scoring twelve goals in the process.
Cardiff – who were without the injured Michael Chopra, Craig Bellamy, Jay Bothroyd and Seyi Olofinjana – took the lead in after 26 minutes in the most bizarre circumstances.
Lee Naylor’s cross from over 40 yards out by the touchline managed to confuse everybody, including on loan goalkeeper Carl Ikeme, as it flew over his head and into the top corner.
It was very much the story of the season so far for the home side with the goal coming against the run of play, as it was Leicester that had started the stronger of the two teams.
Cardiff then took control of the match and created some good chances to double their lead, with Jason Koumas firing wide from a corner and Chris Burke hitting the target after some nice work from Peter Whittingham.
Leicester finished the first half enthusiastically and were unlucky not to draw level when Martyn Waghorn’s corner found Steve Howard in the six yard box, only to have his header scrambled away by the Cardiff defence.
The Foxes exploded out of the gates in the second half, forcing Cardiff to defend in numbers as Sousa’s preferred 4-3-3 formation began to make a game changing impact.
Six minutes into the second half, Leicester deservedly drew level after a pinpoint cross by Richie Wellens found Andy King who had made an untracked run into the penalty area and duly headed the ball past Bluebirds’ goalkeeper David Marshall.
After the equaliser, it was one way traffic for the majority of the second half as the pressure mounted on Cardiff – who had not lost away from home so far this season – as Leicester continued to attack the flanks courtesy of the pace of Martyn Waghorn and Lloyd Dyer.
Dyer had a great opportunity to put Leicester ahead after Steve Howard’s knock down fell into the path of the speedy winger, but he could only hit the side netting with a shot from a tight angle.
Skipper Matt Oakley then unleashed a fierce strike through the heart of the Cardiff defence which was parried by Marshall – who then excellently tipped Martyn Waghorn’s follow-up shot around the near post.
Leicester were rewarded for their persistence with just over twenty minutes to go when Andy King netted his second of the night – and fourth of the season – with a fantastic curling strike from inside the area to put the Foxes ahead, sending the home fans into raptures.
Leicester should have made it 3-1 after a calamitous goal kick from David Marshall put Lloyd Dyer through in on goal, but his shot hit the outside of the post and went agonisingly wide.
Leicester went on to see out the win after a nerve-racking five minutes of injury time, giving Paulo Sousa his first victory of the Championship campaign and the Blue Army faithful a sense of retribution following the play-off heartbreak of last season.
Man of the Match – Andy King
The visitors took the lead in the first half when Lee Naylor’s bizarre cross-turned-shot deceived everyone - including Leicester goalkeeper Carl Ikeme who was caught off his line.
But the Foxes struck back through Andy King who made a late run into the penalty area to head home Richie Wellens’ cross.
King scored his second of the night seventeen minutes later with a superb curling strike, condemning Cardiff to their first loss of the season.
The win demonstrated that any bad memories from the end of last season when Cardiff dumped Leicester out of the play-offs on penalties had certainly been vanquished.
The match saw Martyn Waghorn’s return to the Walkers Stadium, who spent last season with Leicester on loan from Sunderland, scoring twelve goals in the process.
Cardiff – who were without the injured Michael Chopra, Craig Bellamy, Jay Bothroyd and Seyi Olofinjana – took the lead in after 26 minutes in the most bizarre circumstances.
Lee Naylor’s cross from over 40 yards out by the touchline managed to confuse everybody, including on loan goalkeeper Carl Ikeme, as it flew over his head and into the top corner.
It was very much the story of the season so far for the home side with the goal coming against the run of play, as it was Leicester that had started the stronger of the two teams.
Cardiff then took control of the match and created some good chances to double their lead, with Jason Koumas firing wide from a corner and Chris Burke hitting the target after some nice work from Peter Whittingham.
Leicester finished the first half enthusiastically and were unlucky not to draw level when Martyn Waghorn’s corner found Steve Howard in the six yard box, only to have his header scrambled away by the Cardiff defence.
The Foxes exploded out of the gates in the second half, forcing Cardiff to defend in numbers as Sousa’s preferred 4-3-3 formation began to make a game changing impact.
Six minutes into the second half, Leicester deservedly drew level after a pinpoint cross by Richie Wellens found Andy King who had made an untracked run into the penalty area and duly headed the ball past Bluebirds’ goalkeeper David Marshall.
After the equaliser, it was one way traffic for the majority of the second half as the pressure mounted on Cardiff – who had not lost away from home so far this season – as Leicester continued to attack the flanks courtesy of the pace of Martyn Waghorn and Lloyd Dyer.
Dyer had a great opportunity to put Leicester ahead after Steve Howard’s knock down fell into the path of the speedy winger, but he could only hit the side netting with a shot from a tight angle.
Skipper Matt Oakley then unleashed a fierce strike through the heart of the Cardiff defence which was parried by Marshall – who then excellently tipped Martyn Waghorn’s follow-up shot around the near post.
Leicester were rewarded for their persistence with just over twenty minutes to go when Andy King netted his second of the night – and fourth of the season – with a fantastic curling strike from inside the area to put the Foxes ahead, sending the home fans into raptures.
Leicester should have made it 3-1 after a calamitous goal kick from David Marshall put Lloyd Dyer through in on goal, but his shot hit the outside of the post and went agonisingly wide.
Leicester went on to see out the win after a nerve-racking five minutes of injury time, giving Paulo Sousa his first victory of the Championship campaign and the Blue Army faithful a sense of retribution following the play-off heartbreak of last season.
Man of the Match – Andy King
Monday, 6 September 2010
Stevenage 1 - 1 Crewe Alexandra - 4th September 2010
A second half goal from Ashley Westwood was enough to earn Crewe Alexandra a deserved point against league newcomers Stevenage in a scrappy affair at the Lamex Stadium.
Yemi Odubade put the home side ahead in first half injury time, but Westwood’s equaliser ten minutes after the break brought Crewe level after a period of sustained pressure.
The momentum seemed to have shifted further towards the visitors when Stacey Long was dismissed for a foul on Mat-Mitchell King with 25 minutes remaining.
But a determined display from both defences ensured that the points were shared on the day, continuing Stevenage’s unbeaten home record.
Before the game, referee James Linington was not satisfied that Crewe’s away kit did not clash with Stevenage’s home kit, and thus the visitors were required to wear Stevenage’s all yellow away strip instead.
The first half contained very few chances for both sides, although Dario Gradi’s men will have felt aggrieved not to have found themselves ahead early on when the referee brought play back for a free kick after Clayton Donaldson was fouled, as Shaun Miller found the back of the net moments later with a long range strike – which was ruled out.
Crewe continued to push for an opener, and came close when Calvin Zola played the ball behind the Stevenage defence, but Ashley Westwood’s shot was well saved by Boro’ goalkeeper Chris Day.
It was the home side who scored first, when Stacey Long’s initial shot from distance rebounded off the woodwork, allowing the onrushing Yemi Odubade to tap the ball into an empty net, finishing off a well worked counter attacking move moments before the end of the first half.
The second half was very much a different story as Crewe came out firing on all cylinders - and were rewarded for their dominance when Ashley Westwood’s curling effort from over twenty yards hit the inside of the post and into the back of the net.
Both sides were poorly disciplined throughout the match, and Stevenage were reduced to ten men when Stacey Long was dismissed for a second bookable offence midway through the second half.
Crewe were on top for the remainder of the match, with 16 year old substitute Nick Powell forcing Chris Day to make another fine save with a long range shot.
Calvin Zola also came close for the visitors but could not find a winner, and the points were shared on the day.
Man of the Match – Mark Roberts (Stevenage)
Match highlights
Yemi Odubade put the home side ahead in first half injury time, but Westwood’s equaliser ten minutes after the break brought Crewe level after a period of sustained pressure.
The momentum seemed to have shifted further towards the visitors when Stacey Long was dismissed for a foul on Mat-Mitchell King with 25 minutes remaining.
But a determined display from both defences ensured that the points were shared on the day, continuing Stevenage’s unbeaten home record.
Before the game, referee James Linington was not satisfied that Crewe’s away kit did not clash with Stevenage’s home kit, and thus the visitors were required to wear Stevenage’s all yellow away strip instead.
The first half contained very few chances for both sides, although Dario Gradi’s men will have felt aggrieved not to have found themselves ahead early on when the referee brought play back for a free kick after Clayton Donaldson was fouled, as Shaun Miller found the back of the net moments later with a long range strike – which was ruled out.
Crewe continued to push for an opener, and came close when Calvin Zola played the ball behind the Stevenage defence, but Ashley Westwood’s shot was well saved by Boro’ goalkeeper Chris Day.
It was the home side who scored first, when Stacey Long’s initial shot from distance rebounded off the woodwork, allowing the onrushing Yemi Odubade to tap the ball into an empty net, finishing off a well worked counter attacking move moments before the end of the first half.
The second half was very much a different story as Crewe came out firing on all cylinders - and were rewarded for their dominance when Ashley Westwood’s curling effort from over twenty yards hit the inside of the post and into the back of the net.
Both sides were poorly disciplined throughout the match, and Stevenage were reduced to ten men when Stacey Long was dismissed for a second bookable offence midway through the second half.
Crewe were on top for the remainder of the match, with 16 year old substitute Nick Powell forcing Chris Day to make another fine save with a long range shot.
Calvin Zola also came close for the visitors but could not find a winner, and the points were shared on the day.
Man of the Match – Mark Roberts (Stevenage)
Match highlights
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