Former Premier League Chairman Blasts Leicester City Players for Decision That Left Them in a ‘Far Worse Position’

Leicester City dominated the Championship under Enzo Maresca in the 2023/24 season, securing first place and an immediate return to the Premier League.

However, with just over two months remaining in the current campaign, the Foxes find themselves on the brink of relegation once again.

A crucial victory against West Ham United on Thursday could boost their survival hopes, yet even three points would still leave them two points adrift of safety.

Their remaining fixtures present a daunting challenge:

Thursday, 27th February – West Ham vs. Leicester (21:00)

Sunday, 9th March – Chelsea vs. Leicester (15:00)

Sunday, 16th March – Leicester vs. Man Utd (20:00)

Wednesday, 2nd April – Man City vs. Leicester (19:45)

Saturday, 5th April – Leicester vs. Newcastle (15:00)

Saturday, 12th April – Brighton vs. Leicester (15:00)

Saturday, 19th April – Leicester vs. Liverpool (15:00)

Leicester have lost 10 of their last 11 games, and a defeat this week would make it 11 in 12.

Frustration is mounting among fans, with many turning against Ruud van Nistelrooy, who replaced Steve Cooper as manager in November 2024.

Simon Jordan Criticizes Leicester Players for Cooper’s Exit

Van Nistelrooy arrived with minimal senior managerial experience, and his tenure has been far from successful.

Many are now questioning whether sacking Cooper was the right decision.

One person who strongly believes it was a mistake is former Crystal Palace chairman Simon Jordan.

Writing in the Daily Mail, Jordan criticized Leicester’s players, accusing them of playing a key role in Cooper’s dismissal.

“From what I understand, leading voices in the Leicester City dressing room were instrumental in driving a wedge between Steve Cooper and the owners,” Jordan stated.

“The ownership sided with the players, and now they’ve received their ‘reward.’ Leicester are in a far worse position and, barring a miracle, are heading for relegation.”

Van Nistelrooy vs. Cooper: A Comparison

While hindsight offers perfect clarity, there is no definitive way to determine if replacing Cooper with Van Nistelrooy was the right decision.

However, on paper, Van Nistelrooy’s record as Leicester boss is worse than his predecessor’s.

It is important to consider the injury issues he has faced.

Key players like Wilfred Ndidi and Mads Hermansen have endured long spells on the sidelines, while Abdul Fatawu has been ruled out for the rest of the season.

Leicester’s fight for survival continues, but with a difficult run of fixtures ahead and growing discontent among fans, Van Nistelrooy faces an uphill battle to keep the Foxes in the Premier League.