Forget Ndidi: Leicester City’s 87-touch Titan Was Cooper’s Only Bright Spot in Fulham Defeat – Opinion

Leicester City were exceptionally fortunate to secure a point against Tottenham on Monday night, as Spurs dominated but managed only a single goal.

Jamie Vardy’s goal, which came against the run of play, salvaged a draw at the King Power Stadium.

However, Leicester faced a tougher challenge away at Fulham, where they were second best throughout the match.

Manager Steve Cooper opted for an unchanged starting XI for the trip to Craven Cottage, encouraged by their improved performance after scoring a late goal against Tottenham in their season opener.

Despite the consistency in selection, Cooper adjusted the formation, deploying a back three and utilizing Victor Kristiansen and Abdul Fatawu as wing-backs.

This tactical shift, however, may be viewed as unsuccessful in hindsight.

In West London, one player stood out for Leicester despite their defeat—Wout Faes.

Fulham took an early lead in the 18th minute through a counter-attack finished by Emile Smith Rowe.

Leicester equalized when Faes, left unmarked in the Fulham box, headed in a goal.

However, Alex Iwobi’s 70th-minute strike proved decisive for Fulham’s victory.

Despite the loss, there were notable individual performances for Leicester.

Wilfred Ndidi was effective in midfield, and Facundo Buonanotte continued his promising form from his debut against Tottenham with another solid performance at Craven Cottage.

Nonetheless, Faes was Leicester’s standout player.

The Belgian international, positioned on the left of the three-man defense, made a significant impact.

He registered 87 touches and achieved a pass success rate of 89%, completing 58 out of 65 passes.

Faes also won three of his five aerial duels, made eight clearances, and blocked three shots.

He did make one risky mistake with a backheel attempt near his own box, but Fulham missed the resulting chance.

Faes is a critical component of Leicester’s defense and will be essential for the team’s survival this season.

So far under Cooper, Jannik Vestergaard has been paired with Faes, with Caleb Okoli failing to secure a spot after a poor showing in the pre-season loss to RC Lens.

Conor Coady, another experienced center-back, may eventually partner with Faes upon his return from injury, as Cooper has given him significant game time and even the captain’s armband during pre-season.

It is clear that Faes is Leicester’s best center-back, and his fitness and form will be crucial for the team’s chances of staying up this season.

If Faes is available, he must play, as his presence is vital for Leicester’s defensive solidity.