Predicted Leicester City XI v Birmingham: Daka dropped, 27-year-old makes first start in 5 months

Leicester return to action this weekend, hosting relegation-threatened Birmingham City at the King Power Stadium.

Enzo Maresca’s side defeated Norwich City 3-1 on Easter Monday, silenced many critics who had questioned their character.

After falling down early in the game, Leicester showed incredible tenacity to come back and remain firmly in contention for a top-two spot.

With league leaders Ipswich Town two points clear, they can’t afford to drop points on Saturday and must continue their momentum heading into the business end of the season.

Leicester City injury news v Birmingham City

Kasey McAteer has been sidelined since February’s defeat at Leeds United due to a reoccurring hamstring problem, and his return date has yet to be determined.

Ben Nelson and Tom Cannon both suffered injuries during the international break, but they could still make the squad against the visiting Blues.

Maresca, speaking ahead of the Bristol City game, provided an update on the pair: “Then Ben Nelson was injured for the national team, and Tom Cannon was injured during the international break.”

“It is a minor injury (for Cannon). He is definitely out for Bristol City and Norwich, although he may return for Birmingham. (For Nelson), it could be a little injury,” said the Italian head coach.

Leicester City predicted XI v Birmingham City

Mads Hermansen, the ever-present, is expected to assume his usual role in between the sticks.

In front of the Dane, one of the centre backs, possibly Wout Faes, could be rested in place of Ben Nelson or Conor Coady.

Callum Doyle was fantastic against Norwich, and his exceptional cross-field diagonals were really beneficial in the attacking phase, therefore he will most certainly keep his place at left-back over James Justin.

The midfield trio of Wilfred Ndidi, Harry Winks, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall is anticipated to be picked.

That is without a doubt the club’s strongest midfield line-up, with each of the three players possessing unique characteristics.

Patson Daka could be benched in favor of Kelechi Iheanacho, who will make his first start since December.

The 27-year-old has only made a few cameo appearances this year, but he has impressed in them.

Out wide, Stephy Mavididi and Abdul Fatawu have been key players for Maresca this season, and that is unlikely to change today.