Leicester’s starting XI vs West Ham reaction: van Nistelrooy inexplicable | OneFootball

Here we preview the upcoming contest between two struggling Premier League clubs. Although, unfortunately for Leicester City fans their team is suffering more than relegation rivals West Ham United. The contrast has been more dramatic in recent weeks however. So much so that some observers believe the Hammers have now likely avoided the drop down to the Championship.

The 19th place Foxes could certainly reduce the deficit with an unlikely win at London Stadium on Thursday evening. Yet a Leicester win means the gap still remains at a staggering 10 points between them at this critical stage of the 2024/25 season. Sadly Ruud van Nistelrooy's side also have a much worse goal difference than this week's opponents.

Since manager Graham Potter came to east London, we've seen improvements galore at West Ham to be fair. Former WHUFC boss Julen Lopetegui was sacked on January 8. Since Potter was installed as head coach the very next day, he got straight down to work. And we don't see the King Power outfit getting much from this clash, which is obviously regrettable.

The win probability rating gives the English capital club a 56 per cent chance of victory. Meanwhile LCFC are only allocated 20%. The match kicks off shortly at 8pm UK time so let's have a look at van Nistelrooy's team selection - if we dare!

Reacting to Leicester City's starting XI vs West Ham - van Nistelrooy won't change

So after a brief injury, van Nistelrooy has inexplicably put Justin straight back into the team. The latter is probably not fully fit and has had an awful campaign. Yet van Nistelrooy sticks with him!? Give me strength!

Thankfully Facundo Buonanotte has returned to the side in place of the mediocre Jordan Ayew. If the Argentine wasn't playing, I don't think I could have forced myself to watch the game!