Leicester City come into their clash with Brighton under immense pressure with hopes of a top 4 finish now really looking under threat.
The Foxes drew 1-1 away at Burnley in midweek, whilst Chelsea and Everton both won, closing the gap on Brendan Rodgers’s men.
Brighton, on the other hand, have different causes for concern, the Seagulls now sit just three points above Fulham in the drop zone and their form of late has been majorly worrying.
Graham Potter’s side have won just one game of their last five games.
Tielemans Key
Youri Tielemans will have the onus to be the creative force in midfield with Harvey Barnes and James Maddison both out injured.
The Belgian has been playing in a more advanced role since the injuries struck, which has enabled him to try and create more goals.
His vision is one of his main assets and he will be key for the Foxes this Saturday if they are too unlock Brighton. Tielemans did try to fill the void left by Maddison vs Slavia Prague but he did not have the running ability to do so.
His best work is when he plays slightly deeper, dictating the tempo, and making late runs into the box to try and score goals.
Yves Bissouma
Yves Bissouma is arguably one of the best holding midfielders in the Premier League. His tenacity and defensive tackles is key for Brighton as they play very expansive football and he will be hoping to indeed keep Tielemans quiet.
However, it's not just his defensive work that is important, his shooting ability has been demonstrated this season. He has two goals this term, however, he is not afraid to shoot from distance and he has come close on many occasions.
Kasper Schmeichel will be aware of this threat and it could play out to be an intriguing battle.
Bissouma has an abundance of natural ability. On the ball he can pass long range, dribble and commit players which allows Brighton to find their way out of trouble whilst bypassing the press.
Although Brighton have struggled immensely at home this season, it is not for the lack of chances created. The Seagulls sit 7th in the xG table which is nine places higher than their actual position.
The Verdict
Both sides vitally need the points which will make it a cagey encounter in the first ten or so minutes. Brighton will look to bring the game to Leicester as they always do with their opponents.
Leicester may look to play five at the back once more which will invite pressure but also allow for a greater threat down the flanks with Ricardo Periera and Timothy Castagne.
Wesley Fofana is set to return to defence which will be a contributing factor to whether Rodgers plays a four at the back or a five. Previously, Leicester have had to protect Daniel Amartey who is not suited to a four at the back but rather a three.
Leicester will still posses the more quality and with the game being away, the Foxes are strong.
Prediction: Brighton 0-1 Leicester City