Three things to watch in Leicester City’s pre-season opener under Russell Martin | OneFootball

Leicester City begin pre-season under Russell Martin at 12pm today, facing Northampton Town at the training ground in the first summer friendly.

According to LeicesterMercury.co.uk, it is the first of six games in four weeks, with fitness foremost and early pointers on tactics, selections and combinations after a fortnight at Seagrave.

With Harry Winks highly likely to leave this window, a new midfield organiser is required. Returning loanee Sammy Braybrooke, back from Chesterfield, could take that role in Martin’s possession model.

His exact position should be revealed by the shape, and it could mirror Flynn Downes’ function under Martin at Swansea and Southampton.

Abdul Fatawu is absent after an extended break following World Cup duty, so right wing is open. Silko Thomas is an obvious pick, while 17-year-old Jake Evans fits the inside-right brief Martin has used before.

Riley Carr may also be assessed, and Bobby De Cordova-Reid is an option, though his versatility might see him deployed elsewhere.

For the wide midfielder, Louis Page, who turned 18 yesterday, looks a natural. He has shone as a No 8, while Marti Cifuentes used him higher last season.

Will Alves, back from loan, has a point to prove. In League One he could find the right stage, and if De Cordova-Reid plays behind the striker, Alves and Page may compete for the third midfield spot.

Source: LeicesterMercury.co.uk