It feels good to be playing Leicester on the rise. They have good fans, down to earth. They have ambition, they have resource yet seem to know not to go over the top, probably based on recent ownership troubles. They are balanced in play, refreshing in their team work and effort levels. Aside from their obvious glamour name Jamie Vardy , who I seen play at Stocksbridge but he didn't stand out, they have a squad that plays to their strengths. They don't mess around, they often play simple football. Mahrez is an engine in their team that gets praise, but for me liek David Silva of old, he barely gets the plaudits he really deserves. They carried their form over from last season, like City in some ways, but unlike City they've maintained it.
Ranieri is a grand leader, he's like The Engineer, works out a tactic based on what is availabe to him. He is modest and keeps his mouth speaking the right words without drawing too much or too little attention. He has wit and class. His team breaks lines, they read the game but oddly they sacrifice possession to do so.
I think they're one of the best counter-attacking sides who know how to intercept the ball, clip possession from players and hit at pace. The Foxes aren't here to make up numbers. It is easy to see why neutrals and even fans of other clubs are rooting for them. They have points to prove without the pressure of expectation. If Leicester do get the upper hand and go on t win it, it encourages all 19 teams in the Premier League next season. Maybe, anyone can do it, their way. Two league defeats (Liverpool away, Arsenal home) to date shows they're good enough. Their 8 draws to our 5 suggests they also fight to the end... even their two domestic cup games were close calls.
To beat Leicester, City need to be absolutely at their best.
