Five Leicester players with a point to prove as Russell Martin era begins | OneFootball

Leicester City return to Seagrave today as Russell Martin opens pre-season, with several squad members facing summers that could reshape their status.

City host Northampton Town in the Carabao Cup first round at the King Power Stadium, then visit Notts County for their League One opener a week later. According to LeicesterMercury.co.uk, most of the squad, excluding Abdul Fatawu and Harry Souttar, report seven weeks before kick-off.

Martin will assess his options while movement in the window is anticipated. Conor Chaplin is reportedly close to becoming the first signing, with James McCarron and Jon Rudkin active.

Seventeen-year-old striker Jake Evans returns from a loan at Northampton Town. Another loan seems likeliest, but a strong pre-season could push him into Martin’s plans.

Jakub Stolarczyk must convince in a possession-first approach after doubts last season. With priorities elsewhere, there might be no change in goal, so he can stake a claim as number one.

Opinion on Skipp is split. Some cite two relegations since his £20m move from Tottenham, others point to steady six out of 10 displays, and he still needs a clear role.

Stephy Mavididi needs consistency. Four goals and four assists is modest, and at 28 with two years left, his future focus is pivotal to an immediate exit from League One.

Alves remains a major talent alongside Sammy Braybrooke and Louis Page. After loans at Cardiff and Huddersfield, he returns aiming to be Leicester’s number 10, making this pre-season crucial.

Source: LeicesterMercury.co.uk