Pundit Shares Ruud van Nistelrooy’s View on Stephy Mavididi but Claims It’s ‘Too Late’

Stephy Mavididi delivered what BBC pundit Troy Deeney described as his “best performance” of the season in Leicester City’s 2-2 draw against Brighton.

The winger ended Leicester’s lengthy goal drought with a standout display that also helped stop their record-equalling losing streak.

It was Mavididi’s first Premier League start in 10 matches, having last started in mid-January.

Manager Ruud van Nistelrooy handed him a chance in a 4-2-3-1 setup, and the 26-year-old seized the opportunity.

Deeney, who included Mavididi in his Premier League team of the week, said: “People might say, ‘Huh?’ Yes, he plays for Leicester.

He scored, he was excellent, brought real attacking energy, and it was probably his best game of the season. Sadly, it feels like it’s too little too late now.”

Van Nistelrooy was similarly impressed but stressed the need for greater consistency from Mavididi moving forward.

“You can see what his qualities are,” said the manager. “Consistency is his main challenge. That’s why he had a good run in the team but then dropped out. He struggled to maintain his level.”

He added, “If he can train daily with consistent intensity and hold himself to high standards, his consistency will improve. He’s a fantastic player for the club.”

Van Nistelrooy also praised Mavididi’s desire to represent the club with passion, drawing comparisons to teammate Kasey McAteer.

“He showed he wants to play for and fight for this club, just like Kasey McAteer,” said van Nistelrooy.

Mavididi’s return to form offers a glimmer of hope for Leicester, even if it arrives amid a tough period in their season.