Leicester stars must step up in Fatawu's absence as return date set for 20 y.o. | OneFootball

These soon-to-be outlined Leicester City players must now improve their game and form and step up in the absence of winger Abdul Fatawu. The Ghana international was recently ruled out of action, possibly for the remainder of the season, with a 'serious injury'. Fatawu had the ability to change games as a starter or as an impact substitute. Which backup Foxes of similar style and positioning can now recreate or cover what the attacker brings to the table at LCFC?

Meanwhile a supposed return date has been set for another up-and-coming 20-year-old belonging to the east Midlanders. Ben Nelson has been wowing crowds whilst on loan at Oxford United. But, unfortunately for him, the Boys from Up the Hill and City, the highly rated centre back faces a lengthy period on the sideline. How long will Nelson be out for? And will Steve Cooper, or whoever is in charge at that stage, need the youthful defender once he is fit again? All this and more is discussed.

Ben Nelson update and opinion

From what I have heard and seen, Nelson is, or was, probably the next young Fox to break into the first team at King Power Stadium. Although he is temporarily not even a Leicester player as such, the club will have closely monitored his lively and positive progress while at Oxford.

The Englishman was close to breaking into the senior lineup under previous managers, from what I understand. Though he never quite had that breakthrough in the traditional sense.

Fitness recently derailed his advancement, potentially for a huge chunk of the current campaign. You see, Nelson's new issue was thought to be enough to see him sent to the treatment room for approximately two months.

Though he apparently "tore a couple of tendons on one of his quads", says U’s head coach Des Buckingham. The prognosis is now up to four months out for the Northampton-born man.

Which Leicester City players can Steve Cooper rely on whilst Abdul Fatawu is injured?

Fatawu's ACL issue is such a blow for LCFC. He is one of few footballers in the squad who can turn a tough match in the Leicestershire outfit's favour.

Foxes of Leicester now hope £21million signing Bilal Khannouss can find his feet. Kasey McAteer must surely play an important role at this point too. Will Bobby De Cordova-Reid be called upon? Stephy Mavididi will obviously want to finally make his mark in the Premier League as well.