JUST IN — Gary Rowett Gets Massive Boost as Leicester Prepare for Must-Win Preston Game

LEICESTER, ENGLAND – MARCH 10: Ben Nelson of Leicester City celebrates scoring the opening goal for Leicester City with team mates during the Sky Bet Championship match between Leicester City and Bristol City at King Power Stadium on March 10, 2026 in Leicester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Plumb Images/Leicester City FC via Getty Images)

When it comes to the Leicester City squad, the defence has become very important and has clearly improved. Since Gary Rowett took charge, he has made some obvious changes that have helped organise the backline better.

However, despite this improvement, there is still some concern. There is a strong feeling that against the wrong kind of attacking team, this defence could easily fall apart.

LEICESTER, ENGLAND – MARCH 10: Leicester City Manager Gary Rowett celebrates after Ben Nelson of Leicester City scores to make it 1-0 during the Sky Bet Championship match between Leicester City and Bristol City at King Power Stadium on March 10, 2026 in Leicester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Plumb Images/Leicester City FC via Getty Images)

The current situation is best shown by what’s happening with Ben Nelson. The young centre-back has been left out of the team, and the way he has been handled has been confusing.

First, he was publicly criticised, then dropped from the starting lineup. Later, Rowett still came out to say that Nelson is a very good player.

LEICESTER, ENGLAND – MARCH 10: Ben Nelson of Leicester City celebrates scoring the opening goal for Leicester City with team mates during the Sky Bet Championship match between Leicester City and Bristol City at King Power Stadium on March 10, 2026 in Leicester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Plumb Images/Leicester City FC via Getty Images)

This mixed message makes things unclear, but many observers believe the truth is simple, Rowett does not fully trust him.

In his place, Caleb Okoli and Jamaal Lascelles have been playing together in defence. However, this partnership may not last long, as both players have shown a tendency to make costly mistakes.

There is hope that this concern proves wrong, especially with Lascelles, but based on Leicester’s recent form and luck, doubts remain.

LEICESTER, ENGLAND – JANUARY 19 : Jannik Vestergaard of Leicester City during the Leicester City training session on January 19, 2026 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Plumb Images/Leicester City FC via Getty Images)

On a more positive note, there is some good news ahead of the game against Preston North End. The latest update suggests that Jannik Vestergaard is close to returning to full fitness.

Even though he may not start ahead of Okoli or Lascelles, having him back is important. His experience and quality could play a big role as Leicester continue their fight to stay in the league.

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