Midfield enforcer Ndidi still goes under the radar – Barnes

WILFRED Ndidi is beginning his fifth full season as a Leicester City regular – but team-mate Harvey Barnes believes his qualities still go “under the radar” in the wider football world.

While Ndidi’s ability to break up play and shield the back-line do not go under-appreciated by Brendan Rodgers, the City players, or the City fans, Barnes feels that he can be overlooked outside of the club.

The England winger says Ndidi, pictured, is vital for allowing him, Youri Tielemans and James Maddison to thrive on the front foot.

“Wilf goes under the radar for other people watching or other clubs but within our team everyone knows how important he is,”

Barnes said.

“Wilf’s great at spotting danger, covering and breaking up play.

“Youri likes to get forward more, he’s got so much quality on the ball, making final passes and chipping in with goals. “Madders is a great character on and off the pitch and he showed last year when he’s on top of his game that he can be a massive player for us.

“There’s not many of him around in his position. But they need Wilf in behind.”

City’s bid to finally break into the top four this season will likely be dependent on the fitness of their key players such as Ndidi.

Barnes has said the belief is there in the squad to upset the established order after going so close to doing so in the past two years.

“Everyone’s view is that the top four picks itself but we know the quality we’ve got,” he said.

“We know on our day we can match anyone.

“We’ll be up for the challenge. “We pride ourselves on our team spirit.

“We’ll keep fighting to the end.”