Premier League 14/15: Team By Team Preview And Predictions

16. Leicester City

Last Season: 1st (Championship) Manager: Nigel Pearson Opening Fixture: Everton (h) Transfer Activity: Many football experts expected Leicester to splash the cash upon their return to the Premier League this season, however, the £8million they spent on Leonardo Ulloa (Brighton) aside, Nigel Pearson has dealt largely in free transfers. Marc Albrighton (Aston Villa), Jack Barmby and Louis Rowley(both Manchester United),Ben Hamer (Charlton) and Matthew Upson (Brighton) all arrived without a fee. Departures include Sean St. Ledger, Neil Danns, George Taft, Zak Whitbread and most notably Lloyd Dyer, who played a huge part in Leicester's promotion but turned down a new contract offer in order to sign for Watford. Possible Starting XI: Schmeichel; De Laet, Morgan, Upson, Konchesky; Albrighton, Drinkwater, King, James, Mahrez; Nugent Key Player: Wes Morgan Verdict: Nigel Pearson experimented with different formations at the beginning of last season as he endeavoured to find a setup which could fire them to the Premier League, eventually they settled on a straight 4-4-2 which utilised the talents of the likes of Anthony Knockaert and they took the Championship by storm. Many Foxes supporters hope that they continue with that attacking philosophy this campaign, however it is likely that Pearson will look to pack the midfield with a 4-5-1 formation at times, particular in away games. That may not be a popular decision, but perhaps a necessity for a newly promoted side to compete with the dazzling attacking talents of the Premier League. Expect more signings yet from Leicester and a highly competitive team who will be looking to consolidate their place in the top flight. Prediction: 16th