Leicester City EFL Cup: Injury News and Predicted Starting XI

As Leicester City prepares for their EFL Cup tie against Tranmere Rovers, manager Steve Cooper faces a balancing act between resting key players and fielding a competitive side. The Foxes are expected to make several changes to their starting XI, with injury news adding another layer of complexity to team selection.

Jamie Vardy, who returned early from injury during the opening Premier League draw against Tottenham Hotspur, is expected to be available for the cup tie. However, four players remain doubtful or unavailable: striker Patson Daka, left-back Luke Thomas, centre-back Conor Coady, and goalkeeper Jakub Stolarczyk.

Given the relative strength of Tranmere Rovers, Cooper is likely to field a largely rotated side, offering an opportunity for fringe players to gain valuable minutes. This will allow key players to be rested ahead of the important Premier League clash against Aston Villa.

Predicted Starting XI:

Goalkeeper: Danny Ward

Defence: Ricardo Pereira, Ben Nelson, Caleb Okoli, James Justin

Midfield: Boubakary Soumare, Hamza Choudhury, Will Alves (or Michael Golding)

Attack: Stephy Mavididi, Jordan Ayew, Kasey McAteer

Possible Alternatives:

Goalkeeper: Mads Hermansen

Midfield: Oliver Skipp

Attack: Bobby De-Cordova Reid, Jamie Vardy, Abdul Fatawu

Cooper could choose to include more experienced players like Skipp, Wout Faes, and Harry Winks in the starting XI if he prioritises a deep run in the EFL Cup. However, the predicted line-up reflects a focus on providing opportunities to players who have seen limited action in the Premier League.

While the exact starting XI remains uncertain, it is clear that Leicester City will be aiming to secure a win against Tranmere Rovers while also ensuring key players are rested for upcoming league fixtures. The EFL Cup provides a valuable opportunity for the squad's depth to be tested, and the outcome will be closely watched by Foxes fans eager to see how Cooper navigates this challenging period.