Leicester City will face Bournemouth this afternoon in what is sure to be a thrilling match. Steve Cooper’s men remain winless in the Premier League and will aim to get their first victory of the season against the Cherries today. Here are three key clashes to watch out for during the game.
Antione Semenyo vs Victor Kristiansen
Although the Danish fullback defended fairly well against Bukayo Saka last weekend, Leicester’s left flank was a weakness. Leicester have conceded 42% of their goals down the left flank, making it a clear target for opposition teams.
Semenyo is Bournemouth’s right winger and has had a great start to the Premier League season. The Ghanaian is the Cherries’ biggest threat and will look to create one-on-one scenarios against Victor Kristiansen. Kristiansen showed some defensive solidity against Arsenal and must build on that performance to keep Semenyo quiet.
Jamie Vardy vs Illia Zabarnyi and Marcos Senesi
It’s become my weekly habit to add a Vardy vs centre-back pairing clash in my articles. The 37-year-old has been clinical when given the chance this season and has also been good with his linkup play. With Bournemouth expected to play with a high line, Vardy’s runs in behind will be an essential attacking outlet for the Foxes.
Cherries boss Andoni Iraola warned his centre-backs of a potentially uncomfortable afternoon for them.
“He (Vardy) doesn’t give up, he goes every time. For his age, he is still so fast. He attacks the spaces very well. It’s uncomfortable for the centre-backs who wonder all the time if he’s offside, if he’s onside.”
“Then he uses his body well. His timing is very good. You have to be ready for this challenge. I hope our centre-backs are ready because we know it’s not going to be comfortable for them.”
Wilfred Ndidi vs Ryan Christie
Ndidi has been one of Leicester’s best players this season and has impressed with his all-round abilities in the midfield. The long-serving Fox has recorded four assists (joint second highest in the league) this season and averages four tackles per game (also joint second highest). He’s evolved into a physically imposing box-to-box midfielder and will be key in winning the midfield battle against Bournemouth.
Ryan Christie is a fine playmaker who enjoys finding pockets of space during the game. With Leicester’s defence struggling this season, shutting down Christie effectively will disrupt Bournemouth’s build-up play and reduce pressure on the Foxes’ backline.