Rodgers remains decisive as 'Fofana will not be available' for Chelsea encounter

Brendan Rodgers addressed the press ahead of Saturday's trip to Stamford Bridge.

Rodgers remains decisive as 'Fofana will not be available' for Chelsea encounter
LEICESTER, ENGLAND - AUGUST 18: Leicester City Manager Brendan Rodgers during the Leicester City Press Conference at Seagrave on August 18, 2022 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Plumb Images/Leicester City FC via Getty Images)
josh-smith
By Josh Smith

Brendan Rodgers tackled several topics ahead of Saturday's clash against Chelsea, discussing the ongoing transfer saga around Wesley Fofana, the need to sell players and fitness updates on his squad, particularly James Maddison.

Leicester City picked up their first win of the season after beating Stockport on Tuesday night in the Carabao Cup, but it was far from convincing. The Foxes are still in search for an illusive first Premier League win this season and travel to West London this weekend.

Leicester will be aiming to repeat the successes achieved in previous seasons against the Blues but, Thomas Tuchel's side will look to bounce back after a dismal display against Leeds United last time out.

  • Fofana left out again?

Wesley Fofana has been left out of the side over the past few weeks, with the defender attracting attention across Europe and several bids arriving from Chelsea. Sky Sports reports that Leicester rejected a third bid of around £70m for the 21 year old from Chelsea this week.

Rodgers continues to stick to his word as he said: 'Wesley Fofana will not be available to face Chelsea at the weekend.

Embed from Getty Images

"He won't be available for the weekend. He has trained with our Under-21 squad.

"For me, it's all about commitment, when players are willing to commit to those of the team.

"It's been a challenge for Wesley, and you have to respect player welfare. But you have to push on. But the window shuts soon and things will become clearer after that.

"It's not my concentration. I can't lose energy thinking so much about it. It'll be between the clubs. We have to continue to work with what we have."

James Maddison has started the season where he left off, registering 2 goals and 1 assist so far this term, he also scored in this fixture last season. He is a key member of the Foxes' side, having also been one of the bright sparks so far this season.

Unlike last season, City have been injury free so far this term, but Maddison could be doubt for Saturday's game. Despite that, he is the only current injury concern that the Foxes may need to deal with ahead of the tie.

Embed from Getty Images

Speaking about the Englishman's fitness, Rodgers said: "We will know by tomorrow whether he will be able to play. He's the only doubt at the moment. He felt a twinge yesterday when training."

  • Moving Players on 

It has been a very disappointing transfer window for the East Midlands club, making the fewest signings out of any Premier League side this window. Rodgers is still looking to bring players in to strengthen his side. However, the Foxes will still need to sell players before they can dip into the transfer market.

Embed from Getty Images

"A couple more players will need to leave the club in order for the club to bring someone in.

"That's the model of the club. A few more players will need to leave us to be able to bring some more in.

"Hopefully that can be the case. It would be really good for the team, to improve the squad. Everyone knows the situation, and until that changes, we work with what we have."