A Leicester City player has shared insights about the “different” role that Steve Cooper has assigned to him recently.
Victor Kristiansen spent last season on loan at Bologna as Leicester City made an immediate return to the Premier League by winning the Championship.
Although Kristiansen joined Leicester in January 2023, he left on loan after the club’s relegation, as it became evident that Enzo Maresca’s style did not fit his strengths. However, with Steve Cooper’s arrival, Kristiansen has found a fresh start, starting every one of Leicester’s five Premier League matches this season as a left-back.
Despite yet to secure a victory since his return, following a frustrating 1-1 draw against Everton, Kristiansen has been pleased with his individual performances.
A notable development in Cooper’s early tenure was the surprise absence of Stephy Mavididi from the starting lineup, despite his strong Championship campaign. Cooper eventually brought Mavididi back into the squad against Crystal Palace, where he has since scored twice, raising questions about the initial decision.
Mavididi has been deployed on the left wing to provide width, allowing Jordan Ayew to move inward from the right. This change has shifted Kristiansen’s role from a traditional left-back to a third center-back during possession, creating space for Mavididi to operate.
Kristiansen discussed this adjustment on Leicester’s official website after the draw with Everton, saying, “It’s been good to play with Stephy; it’s a different role for me in the last two games. I think I can contribute more with my strength in the later phases of the game, but it’s important to give Stephy space for his one-on-ones and support him with overlaps.”
While Kristiansen prefers a more attacking role, he understands the necessity of adapting for the team’s survival in the Premier League. Mavididi’s recent scoring form makes it easier for Kristiansen to embrace this change, as he recognizes it benefits the team.
Mavididi’s transformation from a bench player to an essential part of the squad highlights his hard work and adaptability after initially being overlooked by Cooper.
