Legendary striker Alan Shearer has named Steve Cooper his manager of the week in his weekly Premier League column.
The league’s record goal scorer stated that Leicester’s 1-0 victory could be a ‘huge moment’ for their quest for survival this season. Shearer wrote, “Will be relieved to have finally tasted victory for the first time as Leicester manager. It could be a huge moment in their season.”
It took the Foxes seven games to record their first victory of the season, and Cooper will probably feel a small weight lifted off his shoulders. The Englishman has been subjected to a lot of criticism this season for his team selection, in-game decisions, and tactical style–practically everything a manager can be criticised for.
However, it was a good victory against Bournemouth. The Foxes rode their luck at times, but it was a terrific defensive effort, with Mads Hermansen only having to make two saves in the entire game. Cooper’s team selection and substitutions were on point and deserved credit for the win.
Facundo Buonanotte and Wout Faes also included in Alan Shearer’s team of the week
Shearer also named Facundo Buonanotte and Wout Faes in his team of the week. Buonanotte scored Leicester’s winner with a brilliant near-post finish and was electric in the first half. The former Newcastle striker was full of praise for the loanee, stating, “The Foxes needed something special to secure their victory, and it came thanks to Buonanotte’s emphatic finish.”
After Buonanotte gave the Foxes the lead, they needed someone to lead the backline to defend it, especially with Bournemouth piling on the pressure in the second half. That man was Wout Faes, who had an excellent game and made countless blocks to keep the Cherries at bay.
“An assured display and probably his best for the club as Leicester earned their first win of the campaign.” Shearer said.
It’s the second consecutive week that Leicester players have gained individual recognition for their performance, following Troy Deeney’s inclusion of Mads Hermansen and James Justin in his BBC Sport team for the week.
