It’s been an up-and-down season for Leicester City so far.
As it stands, 11 games into the Premier League campaign, the Foxes are three points clear of the relegation zone in 15th.
Given that the target for any newly promoted club is survival in their first season back in the top flight, Steve Cooper is on track to do exactly that.
Whilst many fans have called for the Welshman to be sacked due to questionable tactics and uninspiring style of play, there are still some positive things he has played a role in.
Leicester City top five performers of 2024/25 season revealed
Some players might’ve struggled with the opening few months of the 2024/25 campaign, but there are plenty who have stood out.
As per Gyazo, who have collated the average rating of every Leicester City star from the season via Sofascore, the best five players include Mads Hermansen, Facundo Buonanotte, Wilfred Ndidi, James Justin, and Abdul Fatawu.
| Player | Average rating |
| 1. Mads Hermansen | 7.27 |
| 2. Facundo Buonanotte | 7.20 |
| 3. Wilfred Ndidi | 7.13 |
| 4. James Justin | 7.10 |
| 5. Abdul Fatawu | 7.06 |
Steve Cooper was right to offer Wilfred Ndidi contract extension
It was unclear if Ndidi would remain at the King Power Stadium beyond the end of last season after his contract expired.
One of the highest earners at the club, the Nigeria international appeared keen to explore new ventures and had been linked to Everton along with Ligue 1 sides Lyon and Marseille.
However, after a brief spell of uncertainty, the appointment of Cooper coincided with Ndidi signing a new contract.
The midfielder has since become an integral part of the Leicester boss’ plans, featuring 12 times. Deployed in his more favourable defensive role after a spell as a number eight under Enzo Maresca, Ndidi has more assists (four) than any other player in the squad.
It was a decision that supporters questioned at the time but now it’s hard to imagine how this team functions without the 27-year-old in the defensive-minded role.
Cooper deserves praise for taking Facundo Buonanotte risk
It’s no secret that Buonanotte has been a revelation since joining from Brighton & Hove Albion in the summer.
Despite only being 19, the Argentine has adapted immediately and has certainly repaid the faith Cooper showed to sign him on loan.
Little was known about him before his arrival and given that lots have tipped the Foxes to be relegated straight back to the Championship, the decision to throw him in at the deep end was a risk.
But, to Cooper’s credit, it’s a bold decision that has paid off and his performances have been so good that fans have demanded Buonanotte be signed permanently.
Unfortunately, Brighton have no plans to sell him to Leicester – or anyone for that matter – but he could be the crucial component that helps his temporary employers stay up.