Leicester City return to Premier League action on Monday night when they welcome rivals Nottingham Forest to the King Power Stadium.
The Foxes are the only team in the top flight without a victory so far and remain rooted at the foot of the table. They are on a six-game losing run and the 6-2 mauling at the hands of Tottenham before the international break was a new low in what has been a forgettable campaign so far.
Brendan Rodgers is walking a tightrope, and the only way he keeps his job is by propelling his side to a victory over Nottingham Forest in the derby.
Leicester City Team News
Brendan Rodgers has stated in his presser that Wilfried Ndidi and Dennis Praet could be available for Monday night’s clash with Forest.
Ndidi returned from international duty prematurely after sustaining a knock, while Praet has overcome an issue of his own. Meanwhile, illness could rule Patson Daka out of the game.
Predicted Leicester City Lineup vs Nottingham Forest (4-1-4-1)
Goalkeeper
Danny Ward has been underwhelming in goal this season since replacing Kasper Schmeichel, who left the club for OGC Nice in the summer. Yet, Rodgers is expected to persist with Ward and hope the Welshman delivers a strong performance against Forest.
Defence
Wout Faes could get another chance to impress after he did well on his debut against Spurs. He is likely to partner Jonny Evans at the heart of the Leicester backline as the hosts look to keep a solid defensive shape inside their half.
Timothy Castagne will get the nod to function at right-back while James Justin starts on the other side of the defence.
Midfield
Wilfried Ndidi’s availability is a big boost to the Foxes, and the Nigerian will be tasked to guard the shaky backline that has leaked goals at an alarming rate. His ability to break play and win possession back will be crucial for the hosts on Monday.
Youri Tielemans and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall will occupy advanced roles in midfield and look to create chances for their teammates inside the Forest box. James Maddison and Harvey Barnes should assume the roles of wide playmakers, bringing pace and creativity to the side. If Forest allow the likes of Maddison and Tielemans time and space on the ball, they could be in for a long night.
Attack
If Patson Daka fails to recover from his illness, Jamie Vardy could be hopeful of getting a recall in the starting XI. Vardy is yet to open his account this season, but against a shaky Forest defence, he will fancy his chances.
Kelechi Iheanacho will have to be content with a place on the bench but could come on to influence the derby in the second half if required.
