We’re back in action!!!

Leicester vs MK Dons Preview By Lewis Royle

In their first competitive game back since November 12^th, Leicester City take on MK Dons at Stadium MK this Tuesday in the EFL Cup away from home.

A fantastic 2-0 victory last time out at The London Stadium against West Ham should have set the Foxes in good stead for the midweek fixture that lies ahead, but will it be as easy as it seems?

The Dons have had it tough since the restart, and currently lie in the relegation zone in League One following a terrific play off season last year. Since losing star man Scott Twine to Burnley, they haven’t yet found their feet in the league, despite enduring an impressive cup run. Overcoming Swindon Town in Round One, really set the tone for what was to come, as they went on to defeat Championship giants Watford FC, then surpass third division side Morecambe.

Meanwhile, after a rocky start for the visitors in the Premier League, they sit 13^th and are unbeaten in six of their last seven matches in all competitions, coming out on top in the last three. One of which being in the previous round of the Cup in a 3-0 win at home to League Two side Newport County, as a brace from Jamie Vardy and a goal from James Justin sealed a definitive triumph.

In terms of fitness, The Buckinghamshire side will be better off since only one of their boys went to Qatar for the World Cup; that being Welsh International Matt Smith. Moreover, the elephant in the room being the release of manager Liam Manning just last week following a 2-1 defeat to Fleetwood Town. Captain Dean Lewington will continue to lead the line for the time being. Alternatively, Brendan Rogers team had seven go and represent their country, one being midfielder and Englishmen James Maddison, who has recently been injured.

After illustrating his team as “playing with a real canvas and quality,” Rogers is confident going into the game, although being without defender, James Justin, due to an ongoing Achilles injury which is said to leave him out for the majority of the season. Full backs Ryan Bertrand and Ricardo Pereira are also ruled out, with Turkey International Caglar Soyuncu sat at home as well. As for MK Dons, the only real worry is with interim manager Lewington, who will be unable to assist his team on the pitch as he currently awaits surgery.

The Midlands side will look to make it to the Quarter Finals, and will feel it’s well within their reach against the League One stragglers as they have progressed from their last eight League Cup ties against sides in a lower division. However, with the home side conceding zero goals in the competition thus far, who knows what may happen underneath the lights, as they attempt to reach the 5^th round for the first time in the club’s history.

One to Watch – Leicester

Jamie Vardy

Known for his exquisite eye for goal, the Leicester man has four goals in two matches in the EFL Cup this year and will be looking to add to this on Tuesday night.