The view from Leicester: 'We still have the same threats'

Four points from three games to start the season – how satisfied are you with that return?

It was a good recovery after an extremely sluggish start against Hull. A good point and a much-improved performance against Arsenal, followed up with a good three points at home to Swansea. I assume the target would have been seven points from the opening three, but all in all, a satisfying start.

What differences are there between this Leicester team and the one of last year?

If anything, we’ve added even more pace, somehow. As predicted, the loss of Kante to Chelsea has meant we’ve had to change the style slightly. By all accounts, Daniel Amartey has stepped in extremely well, but whether he’s the permanent replacement I don’t know. With the same back four as last season beginning to look settled again, we should remain ruthless with uncompromising defending. Combine that with the Drinkwater-Vardy partnership and we continue to pose very similar threats to last season.

Can we expect to see the likes of Islam Slimani at Anfield?

I would expect to see him start on the bench, particularly as Shinji Okazaki has been excellent in the games he has started this season. With Vardy, Okazaki, Slimani, Musa and Ulloa, we certainly have plenty of attacking options!

Your first Champions League game follows on Wednesday, away from home. Will that come into the thinking of the manager or players?

With the additions made to the squad over the summer, we’re in a much stronger position to cater for midweek games this season. ‘Tinkering’ will be required I’m sure, but it’ll be interesting to see how it affects the starting XIs. I expect Saturday’s line-up to be the same as against Swansea two weeks ago.

Which Liverpool players have caught your eye so far this season?

Coutinho has always impressed me, and has continued to do so in the early weeks of the season. A fine player that we will need to keep an eye out for on Saturday.

Two tight games between the sides last season, with a win apiece. Where will this one be won and lost?

I think it’ll depend on how well both teams can defend, and who can take their chances. That’s a typical on the fence, pundit-sounding answer there, but I believe both clubs’ results this season showcase the point well. None more so than a 2-0 defeat at Burnley.

It’s an important occasion for Liverpool with the opening of the new Main Stand at Anfield. Is that likely to have any effect at all on Leicester?

I suspect none whatsoever. No offence!

What is your prediction?

2-2.