Ruud van Nistelrooy’s experiment with a three-man defence could be about to end as the Leicester City boss has provided an update ahead of the visit to Brighton.
Van Nistelrooy has predominantly used a 4-2-3-1 formation since becoming Leicester City manager but after failing dramatically with that system, he changed it in the 1-0 loss to Chelsea.
The Dutchman trialled a three-man defence with wing-backs, though that alteration hasn’t brought the desired results, with Leicester losing against Manchester United, Manchester City and Newcastle United.
The Foxes also failed to score in each of those defeats and in their previous eight matches, setting an unwanted Premier League record.
A run of just two wins in 18 matches under Van Nistelrooy have placed Leicester on the brink of relegation, as they’re currently 15 points from safety.
Ruud van Nistelrooy hails Ricardo Pereira and hints at system change
Although the battle to avoid relegation has realistically been lost, the players must play for pride in their final seven games to stop being embarrassed further.
Former winger Matt Piper blasted the Leicester players after the defeat to Newcastle, claiming they ‘threw the towel in’ and didn’t fight for the badge.
One man who can never be accused of not trying on the pitch is Ricardo Pereira. The Portuguese full-back recently returned from injury and has come off the bench in three of their previous four matches.
Pereira was a shining light in Monday’s loss and it’s resulted in praise from Van Nistelrooy, who claims it’s a ‘big advantage’ having him on the pitch as it allows him to play with two wingers.
Currently, the Dutchman uses two attacking midfielders but the intelligence and qualities of the 31-year-old could result in a change in system, perhaps returning to a four-man defence.
“It’s a great option; the big advantage is that you can play with two wingers,” Van Nistelrooy said, hinting at a change in formation.
“You saw that when he came on in the second half (against Newcastle). He got us playing out from the back and he’s such a positive influence in getting us out of this run.”
Leicester in a tough situation with Pereira
As a campaign in the Championship beckons, Leicester will want to cut back on player wages, which could see several players depart.
Vardy could sign a new Leicester contract, though the 38-year-old is on a reported £140k-per-week, while the likes of Mads Hermansen and Bilal El Khannouss could be shifted on for sizeable fees.
In the case of Pereira, Leicester are in a difficult position with the Portuguese talent. He sees his contract expire in 2026, meaning he could realistically leave for nothing next summer.
He’s also on a whopping £80k-per-week and may not want to drop back to the Championship next term, leaving the club with a predicament on their hands.
Pereira is a Leicester fan favourite, and many would love to see him awarded a new contract, although time will tell.