The magic of FA cup throws up an inspiring story or two every year. This round takes the turn of Jamie Vardy and his journey from non-league to Premier League champion. The striker faces up against his old side Fleetwood Town, as Leicester City hope to progress into the fourth round of the competition.
FA Cup Replay Preview: Vardy fighting fit to feature against Fleetwood.
Form
Both teams arrive into the match in fine form. Leicester have won one and drawn two in their last five matches, with their latest result, an impressive point away at Chelsea. The Foxes have turned their season around under new manager Claude Puel and sit 8th in the Premier League table.
Fleetwood has only lost once in their last five matches. They enter the match with back to back victories against Southend and Bury. The Cod Army are currently comfortable in League One in 11th.
Team News
Matty James hobbled off against Chelsea with a suspected ankle injury. The midfielder has only come back this season from a long-term Achilles problem. Left Back Ben Chilwell is suspended after receiving two yellow cards at Stamford Bridge.
Fleetwood Town has no injuries, but have new signing Gethin Jones in contention to feature. However, new attacking additions Toumani Diagouraga and Paddy Madden won’t be in the squad, due to playing for their previous clubs in the competition.
Talking Points
Home advantage will undoubtedly play in Leicester’s favor as did the previous game for Fleetwood. That match ended in a stalemate, as neither side could break down the other for a clear sight on goal. This time around it is expected that Claude Puel’s men will control the tempo and pace of the game.
If Jamie Vardy features there is no doubt he will be a threat, along with the pace of Demari Gray. The line up is expected to be similar to the match at Highbury Stadium, with Puel not wanting to risk injuries ahead of the weekends league game against Watford.
Fleetwood has in form Devante Cole to cause a threat, having scored 12 goals this season. While Jordi Hiwula-Mayifuila started on the bench last time out, has seven goals to his name and could feature. The visitors biggest threat previously was from corners. The height of Cian Bolger had a number of opportunities and should again cause a problem for the Foxes defense.
Prediction
Leicester will control the game at the King Power and with the return of Jamie Vardy should be too much for Fleetwood. However, the Cod Army should not be underestimated and will go all to earn a surprise victory.
2-0 Leicester City
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