adminLeicester City could be set for another major change before the transfer window closes, with Russell Martin providing a significant update on the futures of three experienced players.
The Foxes have endured a difficult start to life in League One despite being widely expected to challenge for promotion this season. Leicester have collected just two points from their opening three league matches, leaving them dangerously close to the relegation places.
Their latest disappointment came on Saturday when they were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw away to MK Dons, a result that further increased the pressure surrounding Martin and his squad.
After a summer of significant change at the King Power Stadium, more departures now appear to be on the horizon.
Leicester City Preparing For More Departures
Several players have already left Leicester this summer, but Martin’s latest comments suggest the club’s squad could undergo even more changes before the transfer deadline.
One of the players involved is Wout Faes.
The Belgian defender spent the second half of last season on loan at Monaco in Ligue 1. The French club had an option to make the move permanent after Faes made 16 appearances, but they decided against signing him permanently.
Faes has since returned to Leicester, although he has yet to make a matchday squad for the Foxes this season.
Stephy Mavididi is another player whose future has been uncertain throughout the summer.
The winger has attracted interest from several clubs, including Scottish giants Rangers and Championship side Middlesbrough. Mavididi has not featured in Leicester’s League One campaign so far, although he did start their Carabao Cup victory over Northampton Town earlier this month.
Then there is Hamza Choudhury, whose situation appears to have developed further.
The midfielder has reportedly emerged as a target for his former club Sheffield United, with reports suggesting that he is due to undergo a medical as the move edges closer.
Russell Martin Finally Breaks His Silence
With the transfer window approaching its conclusion, supporters have been waiting for clarity over the futures of the trio.
Martin has now provided an important update.
Speaking to Leicestershire Live, the Leicester boss admitted that all three players could leave the club before the deadline, although he stressed that the final decisions depend on several factors.
He said:
«“I think yes and no. I think they’re aware of the interest that is in them, each individually.»
«“But it’s never that simple as just, OK, there’s interest [and] that’s done. So it has to fit both parties. Like I’ve said, the club won’t be forced into letting anyone go that’s not right for us and them.”»
Martin also explained that the club must prepare for both possibilities, particularly when players are interested in finding opportunities elsewhere.
«“There’s a real balance because people that want to play elsewhere and don’t want to play here, they have to be prepared to still be here. To be fair to those guys, they really have.»
«“We have to be prepared for them to be gone or to stay. And I think it will be updated as and when.”»
However, it was his next admission that will catch the attention of Leicester supporters.
Martin revealed that he expects all three players to reach a point where a departure makes sense for everyone involved.
«“But I expect all three players, something will get to a level where everyone is happy. I couldn’t tell you where, I don’t know if they could yet. But yes, that’s the expectation.»
«“But I think the transfer window always surprises you.”»
That means Wout Faes, Stephy Mavididi and Hamza Choudhury could all be heading for the exit before the transfer window closes.
For Leicester, it would represent another significant reshaping of Martin’s squad at a crucial stage of their League One campaign.
The Foxes will now turn their attention back to football as they prepare to face Tom Cleverley’s Plymouth Argyle on Tuesday night, with supporters hoping the team can finally secure its first league victory of the season.
Abdulhafiz Teslim
admin
