Leicester City’s struggles deepen with home defeat to Burton Albion
Leicester City’s dismal start to life in the third tier intensified on Saturday afternoon, as Burton Albion claimed a surprising 2-1 victory at the King Power Stadium, reports BritPanorama.
The Foxes, who ten years ago celebrated a Premier League title triumph, find themselves in a precarious 18th place in League One, having garnered just one point from their first two matches. Following a 1-1 draw against Notts County in their season opener, Leicester’s woes were compounded as they struggled against Gary Bowyer’s well-organised side.
Burton took the lead within five minutes when Matthew Dennis struck past home debutant Alex McCarthy. Leicester responded with a chance from Olabade Aluko, but his shot was deflected away by defender Sulyman Krubally. The visitors doubled their advantage at the 25-minute mark, thanks to a deflected effort from Dennis, which Kgaogelo Chauke slotted home amid a defensive mishap from Leicester.
The situation worsened for the Foxes just four minutes later when Oliver Skipp received a straight red card for a challenge on Curtis Tilt, forcing manager Russell Martin to adjust his tactics by substituting the more offensive-minded Liam Cullen for midfielder Hamza Choudhury.
As the first half drew to a close, Leicester pulled one back when Burns converted a Will Alves cross, benefiting from a flick from Burton’s Finn Delap. The second half saw Martin introduce three substitutes early on to spark a turnaround; however, despite several efforts—including a free-kick from Tommy Watson that was saved by Corey Addai—the team was unable to equalise.
Fan dissatisfaction was palpable, with supporters booing players both during and after the match, many leaving long before the final whistle. Chants of “You’re not fit to wear the shirt” echoed throughout the stadium, underscoring the discontent directed at the current squad.
Reflecting on the performance, Martin noted the stark contrast in hunger displayed by both teams in the first half. “One team, as basic as it sounds, really wanted it in the first 25 minutes and were hungry to fight and we weren’t, definitely not hungry enough,” he stated. He emphasized his responsibility as the head coach to ensure the preparation of his squad.
Looking ahead, Leicester’s managerial situation is compounded by uncertainty off the pitch as the club is reportedly up for sale, with prospective buyers including Scottish-Indian businessman Neil Lal indicating a willingness to acquire the club. However, Leicester sits precariously, just above the relegation zone on goal difference, raising concerns about an unprecedented drop into League Two.
Next, Leicester will focus on the Carabao Cup second round against Ipswich on Tuesday, before league action resumes against Milton Keynes Dons next Saturday. For a club that aspired to rebound swiftly into the Championship, the current climate poses significant challenges ahead.
As Leicester faces the spectre of their past glories, the situation lays bare a sobering reminder of the thin line between success and struggle in football, where even the mightiest can find themselves grappling with reality.
