2017-18 fan season preview: Leicester
By Paul Godley.
What are your feelings ahead of the new season?
One of excitement. It’s safe to say it’s been an interesting few seasons down at the King Power. Personally I was lucky enough to be there the night we beat Sevilla in the last 16 of the Champions League, and nights like that only help to fuel the desire to one day be back amongst Europe’s elite. Will we reach the heights of 15-16 again? I doubt it. I think the target has to be eighth, with a push in one of the cups.
How pleased have you been with your transfer business to date?
Very. If we’d had this sort of summer 12 months ago, last season’s relegation trouble may well have not happened. The signing of Harry Maguire from Hull looks an astute signing, despite what looked quite a high transfer fee initially. An ageing defence showed up at times last year, so the addition of a top-flight defender this summer was crucial. In the middle of the pitch we’ve invested just over £12m for Vicente Iborra from Sevilla. Their former captain, the man that led them to such success in the Europa League, will add experience and composure in an area of the pitch we’ve been desperate to fill since the departure of Kante. Last but not least, Kelechi Iheanacho: a young, determined striker with a phenomenal goalscoring record for a player who has spent most of his Premier League career to date appearing from the substitute bench.
How is your team likely to line up?
Schmeichel | Simpson, Morgan, Maguire, Fuchs | Albrighton/Gray, Drinkwater, Ndidi, Mahrez | Iheanacho, Vardy
Who will be your most important player?
Wilfred Ndidi. He made such an immediate impact in central midfield after arriving in January that he’s become a fan favourite already. A never-say-die attitude, speed, passing ability and a thunderous shot - the 20-year-old Nigerian has it all.
Who is the unsung hero in your squad?
Marc Albrighton. A solid 8/10 every week, Albrighton will always provide quality from wide and set-pieces.
What do you expect from Liverpool this season?
It’ll be interesting to see how they balance the Premier League and Champions League. Would the fans favour a strong run in the Champions League over a title challenge in the league? At this stage I think both are slightly out of reach. My prediction is sixth in the Premier League and the last 16 in the Champions League.
If you could have one Liverpool player in your team, who would it be?
Coutinho, without a shadow of a doubt.
Top four (in order)?
Manchester United
Manchester City
Tottenham
Chelsea
Relegated?
Burnley
Swansea
Brighton
Surprise package?
Huddersfield Town. The pundits may think they’re down before a ball is kicked, but the Terriers won’t fear anyone.
What is your biggest wish for the season?
Leicester to win the league, of course!