Summer signing Jordan Ayew has been the decisive man for Leicester City in their previous two away games against Southampton and Ipswich Town.
Signed for £5 million (potentially rising to £8.5 million with add-ons), Ayew’s signing was not met well by the Leicester faithful. He was seen as an expensive buy for a 32-year-old forward who had not scored many goals in his career. However, Steve Cooper recognised the value of Ayew’s vast Premier League experience, and the Ghanaian has delivered. His two goals against Southampton and Ipswich have won Leicester three points–invaluable for a team fighting for survival.
Jordan Ayew has won Leicester City three invaluable points
The Foxes were trailing 2-0 at the break against the Saints but completed a stunning comeback to take home the three points. Ayew came on as a second-half substitute and scored the late winner following a clever corner by Harry Winks. At 97 minutes and 34 seconds, it was the latest Premier League winner Leicester had scored since Opta started recording in 2006.
Against Ipswich, Leicester found themselves in a similar situation, with the team chasing a goal against ten men. With the clock ticking, on came Ayew as the impact substitute. Within minutes of his introduction, the Ghana international almost got the equaliser but saw his chip cleared off the line. However, in the 94th minute, Ayew was presented with another chance, and he coolly slotted the ball in to make it 1-1, sending the away fans into ruptures for the second time in two weeks.
Jordan Ayew has become the perfect impact substitute for Leicester. While he would like to start, the veteran no longer fits Cooper’s tactics. With the Foxes playing with two wide wingers, Mavididi remains the preferred choice for left-wing thanks to his dribbling ability. Additionally, Ayew’s lack of energy is evident when he starts and compromises the team’s defensive shape at times.
However, should Mavididi continue to underwhelm, Cooper will have no choice but to fit Ayew in his lineup. After all, a manager’s job is to find a way to play all the team’s impactful players.
