Leicester City manager Dean Smith has expressed that his players are feeling disheartened following consecutive defeats, which have plunged them into a precarious position in the relegation battle. The team faces the risk of relegation if they lose to Newcastle on Monday and Everton secures a victory against Wolves on Saturday.
After losses to Fulham and Liverpool, the Foxes, who were crowned Premier League champions in 2016, find themselves just two points above the relegation zone with only two games remaining. Smith acknowledged the team’s defensive vulnerabilities and the subpar goals conceded in the last two matches.
The recent results have taken a toll on the morale of the players, as admitted by Smith. Since Smith took charge in April, succeeding Brendan Rodgers after his dismissal, Leicester has managed only one win out of six matches until the end of the season.
Currently sitting in 19th place with 30 points, Leicester trails Leeds by one position and one point. Everton, positioned 17th, holds 32 points. While Leicester’s next game is scheduled for Monday, Everton will face Wolves on Saturday, and Leeds will play against West Ham on Sunday.
During their home defeat to Liverpool, Leicester’s players faced jeers from their own supporters. Smith emphasized the importance of the fans’ backing and assured that the team is working diligently to avoid relegation.
Smith stressed the significance of the supporters, stating, “The fans are the most important part of the club. I can openly criticize the players if I need to, but I don’t think it’s necessary because I see their work ethic. The data from my performance department confirms it. The area where improvement is needed lies in keeping clean sheets and reducing mistakes in the defensive third.”
