There was plenty to smile about as Leicester City earned themselves a first win in seven games after thrashing Queens Park Rangers.
Leicester beat QPR 6-2 on Saturday afternoon as Ruud van Nistelrooy’s side displayed their ruthlessness in the attacking department and book their place in the Fourth Round of the FA Cup.
Bilal El Khannouss and Facundo Buonanotte both earned widespread praise and the Leicester duo were described as the club’s ‘greatest hopes’ in the ongoing fight against relegation.
Harry Winks came in for criticism after several poor passes – one of which led to QPR’s second goal.
Van Nistelrooy went for a strong side for the win at the King Power Stadium but was forced into one change and now he has food for thought after one player caught the eye.
Wout Faes impresses for Leicester City in QPR win
Wout Faes has struggled form this season and until Saturday’s win, was yet to start a game under Van Nistelrooy.
With Jannik Vestergaard out injured, Faes was called in to start alongside Conor Coady and was one of the best players on the pitch.
Faes won 100 per cent of his ground and aerial duels according to Sofascore and was given an 8.3 rating, which was only bettered by James Justin.
Leicestershire Live said that the Belgian had given a “really strong showing” on his first start since a 4-2 loss against Brentford on 30 November.
His afternoon was rounded off in emphatic style as the £15m star scored a superb long-range strike after dispossessing a QPR forward to make it 6-2 in second half stoppage time.
Wout Faes should start against Crystal Palace after strong performance
The win for Leicester was a much-needed confidence boost for everyone involved.
James Justin was one of those who needed a strong performance, and Faes was no different.
Defence has been a real issue for the Foxes, who have conceded the second highest number of goals in the Premier League.
A spell out of the first team seems to have helped Faes and the 26-year-old was one of Leicester’s best players against QPR.
Vestergaard’s injury also provides a chance for the Belgium international to regain his place in the first team.
With Crystal Palace coming up on Wednesday, it would make sense not to change a winning side and Faes has earned the right to start.