SuperSport viewers on DStv and GOtv can look forward to the latest edition of a classic Premier League rivalry, as Chelsea head to the King Power Stadium to face hosts Leicester City on the evening of Tuesday 19 January 2021.
Leicester are looking to put themselves right back in the hunt for a place in the upper reaches of the log, with playmaker James Maddison adamant that he and the Foxes in general need to play with aggression and risk.
“A player like myself, I’m going to give the ball away, I’m going to try things that won’t always come off and it might come across frustrating at times,” Maddison said. “That’s the type of player I am, I’ve got to create goals and score goals for the team, and to do that, you have to take risks.
“If I’m a player who’s just going to keep the ball and have 97 percent pass completion every game, I’m not going to get an assist and I’m not going to create chances like I want to be doing.”
Chelsea, meanwhile, have coped admirably with the heavy schedule and key midfielder N’Golo Kante believes their depth – and the way new players have incorporated themselves into the team – has been key to their success.
“For sure we have a beautiful squad,” said the Frenchman. “Everyone is involved. As players we know what is required to be part of the starting 11 and on the bench, because many players have shown that even with less time they play very well. It’s for the manager to decide but as soon as we are on the pitch, we try to give the best for the club.
“We had some new players coming in this season and so far they are doing very well. They feel good and we feel good with them. Now they are part of the team we don’t see them as new players because everyone is in a good mood and has the desire to do well for the club.”
Key players
Jamie Vardy – Leicester City’s veteran striker continues to be one of the best marksmen in the Premier League, showing no sign of losing any of his instincts for goals. Chelsea’s defence has been much improved compared to early in the season, but Vardy will still fancy his chances of finding the back of the net.
Edouard Mendy – Chelsea’s Senegalese goalkeeper has – alongside veteran centre-back Thiago Silva – had a transformative effect on the defence. His composure and confidence helps his teammates both in and out of possession, while his shot-stopping and general ‘keeping skills have emphasised why he has adapted to the number one role so quickly.
Head-to-head stats
In head-to-head stats, Leicester and Chelsea have met in 117 matches across all competitions since their first clash back in 1905. The Blues have claimed 57 wins compared to 26 for the Foxes, while 34 games have been drawn.
Last season the teams shared the spoils in both of their Premier League meetings, drawing 1-1 at Stamford Bridge in August 2019 and 2-2 at the King Power Stadium in February 2020. Chelsea ultimately had the last laugh by winning an FA Cup tie a few months later in June.
Battles to watch
Brendan Rodgers v Frank Lampard – Both managers favour an attacking style, though Rodgers will be envious of the fire power at Lampard’s disposal. Coming up with a way to stymie the Blues’ attacking strength will be the key tactical facet at play.
James Maddison v N’Golo Kante – Maddison’s playmaking and eye for an assist are key to Leicester City’s attacking plans, but he’ll have to work hard to carve out a gap when he has the relentless N’Golo Kante guarding the Chelsea back line.
Olivier Giroud v Jonny Evans – Should Giroud be given the chance to start in attack, he’ll come face-to-face with another veteran performer in Leicester centre-back Jonny Evans. The battle between the pair could go a long way in deciding the outcome of this clash.
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Match broadcast details
Tuesday 19 January
09:15 PM: Leicester City v Chelsea – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League