Leicester City, after surprising the whole world by winning the Premier League last season, have failed to sustain their form from the start of the season. They had a poor pre-season and then lost to Manchester United in the FA Community shield which is the traditional curtain-raiser to the English season. However, they have the perfect season-opener on their hands as they travel to KC Stadium for the first game of the season.
Usually, newly promoted teams are always dangerous in the first few games as they start the season with an immense hunger. But that is not the case for Hull City who had to part ways with Steve Bruce just ahead of the season and yet to bring his successor. The Tigers have not spent a single penny in the transfer market so far and looks one of the favourites for relegation right now.
However, football never fails to surprise us and Leicester City should not be complacent while approaching the game. Here are three key battles that could decide the game.
Curtis Davies Vs Jamie Vardy
Davies is right now the only fit central defender of Hull City and is likely to be partnered by Jake Livermore at the heart of the defence. The Englishman’s job will be tricky as he will face the forward who missed the Premier League Golden Boot last season with just one goal. Davies has to deliver an inspiring performance at the back if Hull have to salvage anything from the game.
Tom Huddlestone Vs Nampalys Mendy
Leicester City’s new summer signing Mendy has big shoes to fill at the King Power as his compatriot N’Golo Kante made his move to Chelsea. The Frenchman will be keen to impress in his first Premier League outing but to dominate the midfield area, he will face a tough contention against Huddlestone who is quite a seasoned player in English football.
Abel Hernandez V Luis Hernandez
Abel Hernandez was one of the biggest reasons why Hull City are playing against Leicester City tomorrow rather than playing Huddersfield Town or Bristol City. The Uruguayan failed to impress in the Premier League in the 2014-15 season when he joined the club and will be keen to shine in the top tier of English football now. He will be up against Leicester City’s new signing Luis Hernandez who will start the game as Robert Huth serves his suspension from the last season.
