A resolute Leicester were able to salvage a point from their trip to the South Coast with Jamie Vardy’s late penalty cancelling out Glenn Murray’s first half strike.
Glenn Murray for Golden Boot?
The question would have seemed preposterous at the beginning of the season, and even now, it seems a tad outlandish. However, the English talisman continues to roll back the years as his blistering form continues. In terms of goals scored, Murray is level with the likes of the Belgian magician, Eden Hazard, and the lethal Harry Kane.
One wonders what Murray would be capable of if he received better crosses and more of them. With teammates like Pascal Groß and Jose Izquierdo returning to the Brighton XI, such a future may not be too distant.
Still Murray has to prove his form is not limited only to matches played at the Amex. The former Crystal Palace man has to prove himself away from home, as does his team. Brighton’s success away from home may very well rely on their no. 9.
Puel doing enough to remain at Leicester
Leicester have by no means been impressive this season, and Puel’s managerial tactics have been rightly questioned and examined. Of course, Leicester are not expected to perform on par with Liverpool or Manchester City, but some recent performances have not only been difficult to watch but also ineffective tactically speaking.
Still, Puel seems to be doing just enough to keep his post at the King Power. This draw with Brighton was a pleasant surprise, and the Frenchman’s team established themselves with proactive football in the second half. Even with 10 men, the Foxes were able to come back from the brink, and if Leicester can replicate that spirit in more matches Puel may see his time as coach extended.
Brighton wasting chances
A familiar theme for Brighton. Whether it be at home or way from home Brighton have the propensity to throw away opportunities to win or tie matches. In the case with Everton several weeks ago, the Seagulls managed to tie the match only to be dominated in the second half.
It was the same story with Leicester, but in a different stadium. Hughton’s men managed to secure an early lead only to be pinned back by Puel’s Foxes throughout the second half.
The stress of the constant pressure paid for Leicester and punished Brighton. Hughton must realise that after scoring his team cannot be complacent and sit in their own half. Such tactics have cost the English manager many points over the course of the season.
Iheanacho deserves more time on the pitch
Admittedly, Leicester’s attack was noticeably impotent in the first half. The introduction of Jamie Vardy and Iheanacho did much to improve the Foxes forays into Brighton’s half of the pitch.
Vardy is a proven force in the Premier League and undoubtedly one of the most talented players in the league. His place in the team should not be up for conversation; however, Iheanacho’s should be. The Nigerian international is young and ambitious, and should be receiving more time on the pitch, especially over the likes of Okazaki.
Iheanacho’s style of play maybe a little unorthodox for a striker, but he has improved since his transfer from Manchester City. He is beginning to adapt to Puel’s plans and should be allowed to prove his worth to a team that sometimes struggles with producing goals.
Brighton not in the clear
Hughton’s men have performed well this season but have not exceeded expectations. While they are clear of the relegation zone the next month will be a testing time for the Seagulls. A bad streak could sink their hopes of staying in the Premier League or could threaten Hughton managerial position.
With Brighton’s new signings something different and better is expected, but it remains to be seen if the team from the South Coast can deliver. December will stretch the team if injuries continue and will test the mental strength of a team that has failed to establish itself throughout the season.
