adminGary Rowett faces tough decisions in attack if Leicester City is to survive in the Championship. Patson Daka and Jordan Ayew have struggled all season, and Rowett’s patience with the Zambian, especially after his costly penalty miss against Watford, appears to have run out.
With only eight league goals between them, the manager is clearly looking for fresh options as action resumes after the international break.
One obvious route is turning to Leicester’s next generation. Lorenz Hutchinson has caught Rowett’s eye with his electric form for the U18s and U21s, racking up 27 goals and assists this season.
The 18-year-old also impressed for the England U18s during the break, scoring on his debut and showing he could adapt seamlessly to senior football if given the chance.
Hutchinson isn’t the only promising talent. Jeremy Monga, who has already had sporadic senior appearances, also starred alongside Hutchinson for England’s U18s. Meanwhile, another young prospect, 17-year-old Bismark Owusu, is emerging as a versatile option.
Capable of playing on either wing or as a central number ten, Owusu has seven goals and one assist in the U18 Premier League this season, including two key strikes in a recent 2-1 win over Southampton.
With ten goals overall for the U18s, the next step is the U21s and if Hutchinson and Monga’s rapid progress is any guide, Owusu could thrive there too.
Rowett has a history of trusting youth. Demarai Gray’s early breakthrough at Birmingham City under Rowett is a reminder that the manager isn’t afraid to throw wide-eyed talent into the spotlight.
Given the struggles of some senior players, don’t be surprised if Owusu and other youngsters are fast-tracked into the first team a move that could inject much-needed energy and creativity into Leicester’s faltering attack.
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Abdulhafiz Teslim