Latest Updates on Mads Hermansen and Van Nistelrooy’s Comments on Danny Ward Ahead of Liverpool vs. Leicester City
Leicester City Face a Tough Challenge Against Liverpool on December 26th
Liverpool enter the upcoming match in formidable form, having suffered only one league defeat this season, and currently sit atop the Premier League standings.
The Reds boast the joint-highest goal tally in the English top flight and could pose a significant threat to Leicester City if the Foxes fail to tighten their defense.
Leicester City manager Ruud van Nistelrooy has seen his side concede seven goals across their last two fixtures.
With this run, Leicester now holds the second-worst defensive record in the league, behind only Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Several factors contribute to Leicester’s defensive struggles this season, but the absence of first-choice goalkeeper Mads Hermansen has been particularly detrimental in their last two matches.
Mads Hermansen’s Injury Update
The Danish goalkeeper, who had been ever-present in Leicester’s league matches this season, has been sidelined since sustaining a groin injury during a 4-0 defeat to Newcastle United.
Despite their defensive frailties, Hermansen had performed admirably prior to his injury.
He also missed Sunday’s loss to Wolves, leaving fans eagerly awaiting his potential return for Thursday’s game against Liverpool.
Speaking during his Christmas Eve pre-match press conference, Van Nistelrooy provided updates on both Hermansen and veteran striker Jamie Vardy.
While the Leicester manager expressed hope for Hermansen’s return, he admitted the keeper might not yet be ready.
He confirmed that backup goalkeeper Jakub Stolarczyk is fit and available, as reported by Leicestershire Live.
“We’re assessing Mads daily,” Van Nistelrooy said. “Jakub is back, fit, and available. It’s about [Mads’] development and ensuring he’s 100 percent before returning. We can’t rush these things.”
Ruud van Nistelrooy on Danny Ward
With Stolarczyk back in contention, Van Nistelrooy may consider benching Danny Ward for the Liverpool clash.
Ward faced criticism from Leicester supporters during the Wolves match, with boos directed his way after a lackluster performance.
Addressing this, Van Nistelrooy emphasized the importance of team unity.
“What happened during the game was tough because you feel for your teammate,” he said.
“It’s about supporting each other and performing in a way that gives fans something to cheer.”
Ward’s struggles between the posts have been evident for some time, and if he starts against Liverpool’s prolific attack, another heavy defeat—potentially conceding four or five goals—may be on the cards for Leicester.
