Leicester City face a pivotal Premier League fixture this weekend as they host Wolverhampton Wanderers in a battle with major implications for the relegation fight.
Ruud van Nistelrooy, who took charge of his first game as Leicester manager on December 3, oversaw a 3-1 victory that lifted the spirits of the Foxes faithful.
That win was followed by a respectable draw against Brighton, a side pushing for European qualification. However, reality hit hard last weekend as Newcastle United handed Leicester a humbling 4-0 defeat.
The result leaves Leicester sitting 17th in the Premier League table, just two points above the relegation zone. With a worse goal difference than 18th-placed Ipswich Town, Leicester’s position remains precarious.
Sunday’s clash with Wolves, who are five points behind them, feels very much like a six-pointer for both teams as they battle to secure their Premier League status.
Mads Hermansen: A Standout Performer
Despite Leicester’s struggles, one bright spot this season has been goalkeeper Mads Hermansen. Signed from Danish side Brøndby for £6.5 million in the summer of 2023, Hermansen has started all 16 of Leicester’s league games and has proven to be an invaluable asset.
According to Squawka, the Danish shot-stopper leads the Premier League in goals prevented, with a remarkable tally of 6.44.
Crystal Palace’s Dean Henderson is second on the list with 4.94, but no goalkeeper has had the same impact as Hermansen, making his performances vital for the Foxes’ survival hopes.
Hermansen’s Injury Blow
Unfortunately, Leicester are unlikely to have their number one available for Sunday’s must-win game. Hermansen suffered a groin injury during last weekend’s defeat to Newcastle and is now a major doubt for the Wolves clash.
Van Nistelrooy faces the daunting task of preparing his side without Hermansen, and the manager may even have to explore the free-agent market if the goalkeeper’s injury turns out to be a long-term issue.
Leicester fans will be hoping for a speedy recovery, as tough fixtures against Liverpool and Manchester City loom on the horizon. For now, all eyes are on the Wolves match, where a win could prove crucial in Leicester’s fight to avoid relegation.
