Leicester City manager Steve Cooper has emphasized that Stephy Mavididi’s inclusion, rather than Abdul Fatawu’s omission, should be the focus of questions regarding his selection choices for the team’s wingers. Cooper’s approach this season has seen Mavididi start the last four Premier League matches, following Fatawu’s presence in the starting XI for the first three games.
Cooper’s tactical preference leans toward a winger who can also perform as an attacking midfielder, which has led to players like Facundo Buonanotte, Jordan Ayew, or Bobby De Cordova-Reid occupying the other wide position. Despite fans calling for both Fatawu and Mavididi to play simultaneously, Cooper has utilized Fatawu sparingly in recent matches, with the player only making brief appearances off the bench, including short spells against Everton, Arsenal, and Bournemouth.
While some Leicester City supporters are eager to see the wide duo from last season play together again, Cooper’s comments suggest that the focus should be on Mavididi’s role in the current lineup rather than solely on Fatawu’s reduced game time.
Steve Cooper, Leicester City’s manager, explained that Abdul Fatawu’s recent absence from the starting lineup is a natural result of having a competitive squad. He clarified that Fatawu isn’t being left out due to any lack of effort or form but rather because Stephy Mavididi has been performing well recently. Cooper emphasized that this situation is not unique to Fatawu, as it could happen to any player based on form and team needs.
In discussing his selection choices before City’s win over Bournemouth, Cooper pointed out that rotation is a normal part of managing a squad, noting that players like Kasey McAteer could also face similar circumstances. He praised the squad’s work ethic in training and acknowledged that some players may feel they deserve more opportunities, but selection is based on the squad’s depth and current form.
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