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Premier League Player Ratings: Leicester City 2 - 1 Manchester City

An unexpected victory against the champions capped off the year for the Foxes.

Leicester City v Manchester City - Premier League

Leicester City’s unpredictable season took another positive turn following the big 1-0 win over Chelsea. The Foxes gave supporters another Christmas present with a 2-1 Boxing Day victory over the reigning champions Manchester City.


Kasper Schmeichel - 5.5

It may seem a harsh rating for a player in such a big victory, especially when only one goal was conceded, but his passing was poor and there were three occasions where he put the team under pressure with a misguided delivery.

Ricardo Pereira - 9

Another superb performance from the summer signing. He was immense defending with six tackles and four clearances. He also, of course, added to that with a remarkable worldie of a goal that won it for the Foxes.

Wes Morgan - 7.5

Many (myself included) questioned his ability at this stage in his career but the past few weeks have proven those people wrong. He once again defended with poise and smart positioning. He totaled two tackles, one interception, and eight clearances.

Harry Maguire - 8

Another solid day from Slabhead. He put in a hugely impressive performance marked by sixteen - yes, sixteen - clearances, and one goal-saving tackle.

Ben Chilwell - 8

Two tackles, two interceptions, four clearances, and one key pass. He does it all.

Nampalys Mendy - 7.5

On paper his contributions may have seemed a small positive, but his positioning and timing in defense cannot be discounted. His two tackles and three clearances steadied things in the midfield.

Wilfred Ndidi - 8

A through day in defense for Wilf as usual with five tackles and three interceptions, but he also carried the ball forward and broke lines a bit more than supporters are accustomed to seeing. He successfully completed three dribbles.

Hamza Choudhury - 7

The 21-year-old continues to take his chances in stride. He found himself in an odd position as a wide midfielder but succeeded nonetheless. He covered for the fullbacks extremely well and ended the day with two clearances. He also nearly grabbed a goal from an odd angle with a clip past Ederson.

Marc Albrighton - 8.5

Hugely important tracking back in defense with three tackles, one interception, and six clearances. His offensive contributions were pivotal as well as he tallied two key passes and scored the equalizing goal with a well-positioned header past Ederson.

Leicester City v Manchester City - Premier League
The heroes of the day embrace in celebration.

Jamie Vardy - 8

Was a menace pressing the opponents and delivered a perfect assist on Albrighton’s goal. It was an interesting role-reversal to see Vardy play provider for an Albrighton goal.

James Maddison - 7.5

Set Vardy free before his delivery to Albrighton for the equalizing goal and was a general threat with incisive passes.

Demarai Gray - 5.5

Came on in the 62nd minute for Choudhury. He was involved early, but was dispossessed in midfield. He later had a chance but sent a shot well off target with his weaker foot. Perhaps could’ve opted to keep possession and kill some time.

Danny Simpson - 7

Subbed on for Madders in the 77th minute. Only needed to make one defensive intervention (a clearance) but was never out of place.

Shinji Okazaki - N/A

Came on in the 87th minute and had just three touches.

*all stats courtesy of whoscored.com


Just when it seemed like things were heading in the wrong direction the Foxes turned around and earned six points against Chelsea and Manchester City. There’s never a dull moment as a Leicester City supporter and this season could yet be another memorable one if the current form is maintained. The team currently sits seventh in the Premier League table and could be aiming for another European Tour (Europa League edition this time).

In a 2-1 victory over a juggernaut like Manchester City there had to be several standout performers. Wilfred Ndidi and Marc Albrighton shined as brightly as they have all season and Jamie Vardy was a pest. Still, the Fosse Posse Man of the Match for the second game in a row was Ricardo Pereira because, I mean, duh. His efforts on both ends of the pitch were the difference in the match.