‘We can create memories to last a lifetime’
EUROPA LEAGUE CAN BE SPECIAL FOR TEAM – ALBRIGHTON
MARC Albrighton is already at the heart of two of Leicester City’s most iconic European moments.
But he believes the Europa League will provide opportunities for more special occasions as he and his team-mates look to write themselves into the club’s folklore again.
Albrighton will forever be in the record books for scoring City’s first-ever Champions League goal, above, away at Club Brugge four seasons ago, the winger then netting in the famous last 16 win over Sevilla.
While the Europa League is not as renowned as its sister competition, and even with no fans in the stadiums to soak up the magic moments, Albrighton believes the team can create memories that will last a lifetime.
“I do think the Europa League is going to be special this year,” the winger said ahead of tonight’s final group game against AEK Athens.
“We are looking to do really well in it and go as far as we can. That in itself will create special moments in games.
“It probably takes the gloss off it with the fans not being there and probably wouldn’t look as good but we as a group of players are just as determined as we would be in the Champions League with a full stadium.
“We have a platform and that opportunity to create something special and put ourselves further in Leicester folklore.”
However, the chances for Albrighton to score those goals may be reduced now he is playing in a more defensive role.
While always known for his work-rate in tracking back, Albrighton has plenty more defensive responsibilities in the wingback role he has been deployed in this season.
“It’s something different to what I’ve been used to in recent years,” he said.
“There have been times where I’ve played there before.
“The manager and coaching staff have been really good, helping me with positioning and where I should be at certain times defensively, and deciding when is best to press higher up the pitch.
“It’s a case of decision-making when you’re on the pitch.
“I’ve been getting plenty of help, I’m enjoying playing and I’m working hard every day in training to make sure I’m in and around the team to make the manager’s selection decisions harder for him.”