|
Luton - Unlike last season, we should kick off the new season with very few injury worries. The only player who will be unavailable tomorrow is consistent left winger Paul Underwood, who is still out with a mystery infection that at one point threatened to ruin his career. Other than Unders, there is a full squad at Newell's disposal, meaning that he has a few selection worries in all positions. In goal, Marlon Beresford's age could be a worry for this season, whilst Dean Brill is starting to mature and improve considerably. Leon Barnett is also improving a lot at centre-back and could push new club captain Chris Coyne for his place. Langley, Robinson, Holmes and Bell could all compete for places in central midfield, with Leary and O'Leary as back-ups. On the left, Newell will probably be torn between new signing Lewis Emanuel and Dean Morgan, whilst Brkovic could also compete for a place if Carlos Edwards keeps his place on the right wing. Therefore the decision over the team shouldn't be taken lightly by Newell. The team expected to play tomorrow is:
Beresford (GK), Davis (DL), Foley (DR), Coyne (DC, capt), Heikkinen (DC), Edwards (MR), Brkovic (ML), Langley (MC), Robinson (MC), Boyd (SC), Vine (SC).
Leicester City - The biggest problem for Leicester could come in goal. Experienced keeper Rab Douglas is injured and doubtful, so Paul Henderson is likely to deputise for the Foxes. Defender Patrick Kisnorbo is suspended, and midfielder James Wesolowski's injury nightmare continues into this season.
Despite only finishing 16th last season, Leicester City finished very strongly at the end of last season. Their last visit to Kenilworth Road saw them win 2-1, with goals from Matty Fryatt and Chris O'Grady. Previous caretaker manager Rob Kelly has now taken over on a permanent basis, and if he can help Leicester maintain their form from the end of last season, then they certainly won't struggle like last season. Kelly has already said that the match will be difficult for his Leicester side, but victory certainly isn't beyond them at all.
Predicted Outcome
A lot of people are tipping us to struggle this season, just like the last two seasons when we certainly didn't struggle. Therefore I'm pretty optimistic about Saturday, as I believe in Newell's ability to get the most out of this team. Both teams will be up for the challenge though, and it certainly won't be easy for us. I'm predicting a close 2-1 win to Luton, with new signing Adam Boyd impressing and getting both goals.