EFL Championship Round 15: Leicester City Should Settle on Iheanacho, Can Ipswich Replicate Last Season's Success?

The 15th round of the EFL Championship continues on the morning of November 4th, Beijing time. Table-toppers Leicester City face Leeds United, while newly-promoted Ipswich Town visit Birmingham City. With ongoing debates over Leicester’s best starting striker and Ipswich’s impressive transition from League One, this round promises significant insights into the season’s progress.

Leicester City vs. Leeds United - Iheanacho Should Be the Preferred Starter

This season’s EFL Championship is only 14 rounds old, yet Leicester City already hold a 14-point lead over third-placed Leeds United. This equates to an average increase of one point per match over the promotion play-off spots. A win against Leeds could further cement their place as favorites for an immediate return to the Premier League. Since their loss to Hull City in early September, Leicester has secured nine consecutive wins, showcasing their Premier League-winning pedigree in the Championship.

In their last outing, Leicester visited struggling Queens Park Rangers. Fans anticipated a dominant win, but QPR proved resilient. Leicester took the lead in the 30th minute, but QPR equalized within ten minutes. Adjustments in tactics and personnel eventually led to a winning goal in the 80th minute by new signing Harry Winks from Tottenham Hotspur.

Veteran striker Jamie Vardy, who led Leicester to their historic Premier League title, is now 36 and struggling to start regularly in the demanding Championship schedule. Manager Enzo Maresca occasionally starts Vardy, possibly to maintain squad harmony, but Kelechi Iheanacho has shown he deserves the starting role. Unlike teammates N’Golo Kanté and Riyad Mahrez, who left after the title win, Vardy stayed loyal to Leicester and merits respect. However, it's crucial for the coaching staff to navigate this transition carefully and ensure the team’s best interests.

Leeds United, who were relegated alongside Leicester last season, have adapted quickly to the Championship. Their victory over Huddersfield Town solidified their third-place position. Leeds scored four goals in the first half, conceding only a consolation goal in the second. Although they are nine points behind the automatic promotion spots, the team remains hopeful of closing the gap, especially with Ipswich Town, a newly promoted team, currently in second place.

Leicester City appear favorites against any Championship team, given their form and history. They have often had the upper hand in previous Premier League encounters with Leeds. A 2-0 victory for Leicester seems a plausible outcome for this match.

Birmingham City vs. Ipswich Town - Can the Newly-Promoted Team Maintain Their Form?

Birmingham City, a team that has languished in the Championship for years, shows no significant signs of improvement this season. Currently five points shy of the playoff spots, their lack of consistency, especially in the latter stages of the season, has been a recurring issue. In their recent match against Southampton, Birmingham conceded two early goals within the first 20 minutes. Despite pulling one back in the second half, their passive approach saw them succumb to a 3-1 defeat.

In contrast, Ipswich Town, newly promoted from League One, have been remarkable. Last season, Ipswich scored over 100 goals and conceded less than one per game. This season, their attacking and defensive metrics in the Championship are equally impressive. Manager Kieran McKenna deserves much credit for this seamless transition. Ipswich’s current squad features many players who were pivotal in their promotion. Their cohesive play and swift adaptation to a higher level underscore McKenna’s managerial prowess.

McKenna, who was forced to retire at 23 due to a severe hip injury, began his coaching career soon after and now boasts eight years of experience. His ability to nurture and develop players has been evident, transforming Ipswich into a formidable Championship side. Despite playing fewer games, Ipswich’s goal tally matches that of Leicester, and they boast the third-best defensive record in the league. Their collective improvement is a testament to the squad’s quality and McKenna’s strategic vision.

Birmingham’s solid home form could pose a challenge for Ipswich. Given their current standings and form, a 1-1 draw seems a likely outcome.

Leicester City's Dominance and Iheanacho's Emergence

Leicester City's dominance in the Championship is a testament to their depth and quality, even after relegation. Their winning streak, currently at nine games, highlights their superiority in the league. The debate over the starting striker is significant, given Jamie Vardy’s legendary status at the club. However, Kelechi Iheanacho has emerged as a more suitable option for the physically demanding and high-paced Championship fixtures. Iheanacho’s agility, youth, and form provide Leicester with a consistent goal threat, something Vardy, despite his experience and loyalty, struggles to offer in every game.

Manager Enzo Maresca faces the delicate task of balancing respect for Vardy’s contributions with the team’s need for optimal performance. Ensuring Vardy’s understanding and support for Iheanacho’s more regular starting role could be pivotal for Leicester’s campaign.

Ipswich Town’s Remarkable Transition

Ipswich Town’s transition from League One to the Championship has been nothing short of spectacular. Their goal-scoring prowess and defensive solidity continue to impress, mirroring their dominant form from last season. Manager Kieran McKenna’s role in this transformation cannot be overstated. His tactical acumen and player development skills have enabled Ipswich to compete at the highest level of the Championship, challenging established teams and securing vital points.

The team’s ability to maintain high standards in a more competitive league showcases their potential to contend for promotion. McKenna’s innovative strategies and motivational skills have fostered a resilient and cohesive squad capable of exceeding expectations.

Tactical Analysis and Predictions

Leicester City vs. Leeds United

Leicester’s tactical flexibility and depth give them an edge over Leeds United. Maresca’s ability to adapt formations and make crucial in-game adjustments has been a key factor in their success. Leeds, though strong, might struggle to contain Leicester’s dynamic attack, especially with Iheanacho leading the line. A 2-0 victory for Leicester seems likely, continuing their dominant run.

Birmingham City vs. Ipswich Town

Birmingham’s home advantage and determination to climb the table will test Ipswich’s resilience. However, Ipswich’s cohesive play and strategic discipline under McKenna make them formidable opponents. A 1-1 draw reflects both teams’ strengths and current form, with Ipswich likely to dominate possession and create significant chances.

The 15th round of the EFL Championship promises intriguing matchups, with Leicester City and Ipswich Town poised to continue their impressive campaigns. Leicester’s dominance and Ipswich’s remarkable transition highlight the competitive nature of the league. Fans can expect tactical battles, thrilling performances, and significant implications for the promotion race.