The Leicester lineup that should start against Manchester United on Boxing Day

25 December 2020 09:00

Leicester City host Manchester United at King Power Stadium in a mouthwatering Boxing Day lunchtime kick-off.

The two teams sit second and third in the Premier League table respectively, and have the chance of putting the pressure on table topping Liverpool, who don't play until the following day, with a big three points.

Brendan Rodgers' Foxes have been fairly up and down over the past month, but they did grind out an impressive 2-0 win at Tottenham last time out - continuing their remarkable record on the road. United are also good travellers, and have notched up six successive wins on their travels.

Here, 90min picks the side Leicester should select, barring any late fitness concerns.


1. Goalkeeper & Defenders

Kasper Schmeichel reacting quickly to deny Son Heung-Min with a brilliant save | Julian Finney/Getty Images

Kasper Schmeichel (GK) - The Danish goalkeeper is one of the first name's on the teamsheet and is a guaranteed starter.

Jamse Justin (RB) - The young full-back was excellent against Tottenham both defensively and offensively. His versatility allows Leicester to change their shape, and it's hard to see him being dislodged from the side.

Wesley Fofana (CB) - The Frenchman is another player who has impressed greatly, and put in another stellar showing against Tottenham. Caglar Soyuncu is doubtful, so likely to be on the right of a two-man central defence.

Jonny Evans (CB) - Partnering Fofana will be Premier League veteran Evans, who has been an influential part of Rodgers' success as Foxes boss so far. In talks over a new contract, such is his importance.

Timothy Castagne (LB) - The Belgian was taken off after an hour against Spurs as he builds up his fitness. Has great quality going forward and is another versatile operator.


2. Midfielders

James Maddison proved a constant threat for Tottenham defenders | Pool/Getty Images

Wilfred Ndidi (CM) - Was a stand out performer against Tottenham, winning possession five times from deep midfield. He's the driving force in this Leicester side and will start against United.

Youri Tielemans (CM) - Another Foxes player who rarely puts in a poor performance. The Belgian provides the creative edge from the base of midfield and suits playing alongside Ndidi.

Marc Albrighton (RM) - Also shone against Tottenham and will likely stay as the right sided midfielder.

James Maddison (CAM) - Played five key passes and finished the match against Spurs with a pass accuracy of 97%. Also had a goal chalked off and looks to be fully fit again.

Harvey Barnes (LM) - Always a threat to opposition defences with his blistering pace and eye for getting in behind.

3. Striker

Jamie Vardy puts Leicester 1-0 up from the peanalty spot against Tottenham | Pool/Getty Images

Jamie Vardy (ST) - Leicester's 'Mr. Reliable', Vardy continues to deliver time and time again. Tends to have more success away from King Power, so this could be the first step to writing that wrong.


Source: 90min