Fuchs still has crucial role as Chilwell takes time to recover
AUSTRIAN FULL-BACK ‘SHOWED HIS QUALITY AND POWER’ AT STAMFORD BRIDGE, SAYS MANAGER
LEICESTER City defender Ben Chilwell looks set to miss tomorrow’s trip to Sheffield United.
The full-back was ruled out of last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea with a hip injury, veteran Christian Fuchs stepping in to fill the void.
Chilwell had been predicted to return for the trip to Bramall Lane, but manager Brendan Rodgers has said that is now unlikely.
“Ben had an injection last week,” said the City boss in yesterday’s press conference. “He will join in the training, we will see how he is for the weekend, but (he is) more than likely to be available next week (against Bournemouth).”
In Chilwell’s absence, Fuchs is expected to step in again and the Austrian has been lauded by Rodgers.
Despite an unconvincing start in the 1-1 draw with Chelsea, Fuchs showed his quality as City dominated the second half at Stamford Bridge.
Rodgers was impressed with Fuchs’ performance and hailed the positive impact of his experience and ability on the first team.
“I thought he was outstanding (against Chelsea),” said Rodgers. “Like the team in those first 10 to 15 minutes he was finding his bearings and it was tough for us, but after
He gives 100 per cent every day, so that prepares him when you put him in a game.
Brendan Rodgers on Fuchs
that, he showed his quality and he showed his power, he showed his pace and his defensive qualities as well. He’s a player that I’ve been really impressed with.
“I think what was great to see, from his perspective, was that he got the reward for the way he’s been training. “He gives 100 per cent every single day, so that prepares him when you can put him in a game like this here.” Although he had plans to move to the US in the summer, Fuchs signed a one-year contract extension with City after being won over by Rodgers.
The boss says the 33-year-old retains an important role at the club.
Rodgers said: “I’ve spoken to Christian a lot since I’ve come in and he’s a really valuable member of our squad.
“Of course, he’s got a top young left-back that’s been in front of him for the last 18 months to two years, but that doesn’t mean he’s any less important.
“The likes of him, Wes Morgan, these guys are so important for our squad and the mentality of the group. When they’re asked to come in, I always know they’ll do a good job.”