Can lightning Daka strike for Rodgers?
BRENDAN RODGERS has issued a lightning warning ahead of today’s Community Shield clash against Manchester City.
While all the talk will surround City’s £100million new boy Jack Grealish, Rodgers hopes his signing, Patson Daka, can make a rapid impact on English football.
The Zambia striker bought from Red Bull Salzburg certainly has wings. He joined the Foxes in a £23m deal and has built his reputation on his speed.
Rodgers, below, likes pace up top and Daka joins JamieVardy in his striking armoury.
The Leicester manager said: “From the moment he stepped into the place it’s been non-stop smiling. He’s first class and is so happy to be here.
“He’s very quick. I like that explosive pace at the top end of the pitch. I’ve always had fast players in that area. He works his socks off as well.
“He’s similar to Jamie in that he likes to run in behind defences and he’s a natural finisher as well. ”
Rodgers says Daka’s arrival can keep Vardy, 34, on his toes, adding: “Jamie is first class in training and that’s what enables him to continue at the very top.
“He’s been at the front in some of the running. He’s in great condition. Sometimes competition is your best coach.”
Rodgers admits to being a big fan of Grealish, the first £100m player in the Premier League.
The Foxes boss said: “He’s a top-class player. I’ve seen him develop from a young guy into a big talent. Whoever he plays for, he will make them better.”
He does not have any issues with City brandishing the chequebook to bring in top talent, saying: “They’ve been built to win things and the challenge for all of us with fewer resources is to compete.
“You can look at it two ways – either that you can never compete with that kind of thing or you work hard to create an environment where you are competing.
“I don’t envy them. It’s a wonderful club with an incredible group of players and an outstanding coach.”