Leicester City boss Claude Puel has a few defensive concerns to contend with as he plans for Huddersfield Town's visit to the King Power Stadium this Saturday.
The manager won't be able to field club captain Wes Morgan, after the centre-back's sending off during last weekend's loss to Bournemouth. He has also admitted that he's worried about tiredness in his squad, particularly where England international Harry Maguire is concerned.
The defender was a mainstay for the Three Lions in this year's World Cup, and his exertions during the tournament may have taken a toll.
“It will be an opportunity for the players to show their quality and I am not afraid about this.
“It is a shame but we have responsibility, I am responsible, and together we will correct this.”
The Frenchman also admitted being on tenterhooks about Maguire's situation, but he isn't prepared to use it as an excuse.
“Yes. It is a reflection of mine about this," he admitted.
"It is my responsibility to try to find a good balance about this. Not just a good balance about the different attributes of each player but the balance their tiredness, their desire and their freshness.
Puel will consider his options at centre-back after Wes Morgan was sent-off last weekend. "They [Çağlar Söyüncü and Jonny Evans] are both match fit. I will make a decision. I am happy with the work from both of them. Jonny deserves to play, he is a very experienced player." #LCFC pic.twitter.com/saT6QFXEg9
— Ben Dinnery (@BenDinnery) September 20, 2018
“Perhaps some players did not have enough freshness and concentration because they were little tired with their travels.
Source: 90min