Leicester City have encountered difficulties capitalizing on their opportunities in recent matches, suffering consecutive defeats to Millwall and Plymouth Argyle.
These losses underscore a significant issue for the team, particularly in terms of converting chances into goals. Despite these struggles, questions have arisen regarding the continued inclusion of Patson Daka in the lineup, especially after missed scoring opportunities.
Tactics expert Dominic Wells provided insights into Manager Maresca’s strategic decisions, emphasizing Daka’s strengths and contributions to the team. Wells highlighted Daka’s versatility, describing him as the most well-rounded number nine at Leicester.
He praised Daka’s ability to receive the ball, exploit his pace to stretch the defense, and excel in pressing opponents out of possession.
While acknowledging Daka’s overall strengths, Wells also addressed the need for improvement in his finishing. Daka’s recent goal-scoring drought has been notable, prompting concerns about his effectiveness in front of goal.
However, Wells expressed confidence that once Daka breaks through with a goal, his confidence will soar, potentially sparking a scoring spree akin to his earlier performances for the team.
Speaking on BBC Radio Leicester’s When You’re Smiling podcast, Wells delivered a thought-provoking assessment of Daka’s strengths and why he’s favoured over some of the other strikers at the club.
“The most well-rounded number nine Leicester City have is Patson Daka,” the tactics guru said.
“In a Maresca system, you need to have a little bit more versatility in your play. The number nine has to do so many different things.
“They have to be able to drop and receive the ball to feet which I think the best player at the club in doing that is Kelechi Iheanacho.
“You need to be able to stretch the defence by making runs in behind their shape, which I think the best at the club at that is probably Vardy although maybe he’s losing that pace and that’s where Patson Daka does have a hell of a lot of pace, so he’s really good at stretching them like that as well.”
Wells continued: “But then they also need to be exceptionally good out of possession, they need to be able to press and what Daka does is he’s relentless in his press.”
The analysis sheds light on Maresca’s tactical approach, highlighting Daka’s multifaceted contributions to the team’s attacking play. Despite alternatives like Jamie Vardy and Kelechi Iheanacho offering specific attributes, Daka’s versatility aligns well with Maresca’s system. His relentless pressing and ability to stretch defenses provide valuable assets to Leicester’s offensive strategies.
For Daka, the challenge lies in translating his efforts into tangible goals, a task crucial for Leicester’s promotion aspirations. With the right opportunities and continued perseverance, Daka has the potential to rediscover his scoring form and make significant contributions to Leicester’s campaign. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Daka to capitalize on his strengths and deliver the desired results on the pitch.
Leicester City’s recent struggles underscore the importance of converting chances into goals, and Daka’s role in this aspect of the game remains pivotal.
As the team navigates the challenges of the season, Daka’s ability to deliver in front of goal will be closely scrutinized, with hopes that he can rediscover his scoring touch and contribute to Leicester’s pursuit of success.