Leicester City manager Gary Rowett has expressed optimism as his squad prepares for a crucial encounter against Norwich City this Saturday. This match will be Rowett's first home game in charge of the Foxes, who find themselves in a challenging position at the bottom of the Championship. Read more about Marcondes Eyes Exit as Norwich Focus on Youth.
Currently, Leicester are just one point from safety, having faced a six-point deduction for breaching EFL financial regulations. An appeal against this decision is underway, adding to the pressure on Rowett, who is yet to secure a victory since taking the helm. He is eager to shift the momentum as the Canaries visit the King Power Stadium.
Midfielder Jordan James, a standout performer in what has been a tough season for Leicester, may return to the squad after participating in training. Rowett commented, “Jamaal (Lascelles) trained today, and Jordan James trained today; it’s about assessing those players and making sensible decisions.” He emphasised the importance of having both players back, stating, “Those two, for example, would be important players to get back in the squad. If we can do that safely, then we will. I might need to put the medical team’s arms around their backs tomorrow and see if I can sway that decision.” Read more about Toure Thrives Under Clement's Guidance at Norwich City.
James’s potential return is particularly significant, as he scored the winning goal in their previous meeting against Norwich. Additionally, Abdul Fatawu, who assisted James in that fixture, is also in contention for a starting spot after being limited to a substitute appearance due to a minor fitness issue. Read more about Tavares Joins Barcelona as Norwich Bid Farewell.
Despite Leicester’s ongoing struggles—having not kept a clean sheet in their last 28 league matches, their longest such run outside the top flight since 1948—Rowett is determined to instil a winning mentality among his players. “If we don’t keep another clean sheet all season but win every game, that’s fine,” he remarked. “But it is the hallmark of a good side; the top teams don’t concede a lot of goals. We’ve done a bit of work on that; the players have taken it on board.”
Rowett also stressed the need for clarity in roles and team structure, saying, “It doesn’t need to be super-detailed, just super-clear; it’s got to be achievable.”
Having faced Norwich head coach Philippe Clement during his time at Oxford United, Rowett is aware of the challenges that lie ahead. “They are a good side; I’ve watched them a lot under Philippe. I think I managed one of his first games for Oxford earlier in the season, so we know how much they’ve improved and what some of their strengths are," he noted.
He acknowledged the injury challenges faced by both teams, complicating squad predictions for a demanding week featuring three matches. “They are a little bit like us, with quite a few injuries as well, so predicting the team in a three-game week isn’t always easy. But they have good options,” Rowett said.
As Leicester gears up for this pivotal match, Rowett remains focused on the aspects within their control, recognising that every point is crucial in their battle against relegation.