Will van Nistelrooy continue with Leicester's new 5-2-3 formation? | OneFootball

Leicester fans received their wish to an extent. Ruud van Nistelrooy has changed the formation, and the team played with an increased fight. If it weren't for an expanding gap between them and Wolves, the result would be a positive sign. Time is running out, however, and regardless of who City play, they need points.

If LCFC fans see this type of renewed spirit in remaining fixtures, the Foxes faithful will at least be able to face relegation with a sense of hope. RvN knows that he and his men are fighting for their place in the Premier League, and on Sunday, it looked like it.

Tactically, the side found success in their 5-2-3 look. It's inherently more defensive in nature. At this time, it's necessary. Mads Hermansen has had a good showing throughout the campaign. His being a consistent best-player consideration after performances, unfortunately, is not good.

A keeper needs to be able to step up when called upon. Constantly being expected to face pressure and display heroics to keep a side in matches is beyond reasonable. By adding an extra center back, it provides a little more cover.

Wilfred Ndidi and Boubakary Soumaré had a better day in the middle of the park. Throughout the season, the midfield has often too easily exposed the backline and Hermansen. Adding an extra body to provide cover is simply needed at this point.

Needed give and take for Leicester

The change does come with a drawback. Another defensive body means one less person in an advanced position to join the attack. Most times, though, Leicester are forced to get numbers behind the ball. Sacrificing a midfielder or striker to win possession more often is the hope. For now, it serves to concede less.

City couldn't go on to continue to give up as many goals as they have. Easy goals with little resistance, in particular, couldn't keep happening. On the season, 62 scores against is only bested by Premier League bottom Southampton at 68.

LCFC is unlikely to suddenly have majority possession any time soon. Staying more defensive and sending numbers to support Jamie Vardy when the moments arise is what's best at the moment. Leicester may have already sealed their fate through earlier results, but RvN has found the right formula to give them the best chance for each match moving forward.