Leicester City boss Enzo Maresca sends Stephy Mavididi simple demand

Leicester City boss Enzo Maresca has defended Stephy Mavididi’s difficult start to 2024 after the winger’s run without a goal continued in the 2-2 draw at Hull City.

Mavididi endured a difficult afternoon on Saturday as the Foxes dropped further points. After conceding a penalty for the home side by pulling Regan Slater down inside the box, the 26-year-old struggled to make an impact at the other end of the pitch.

Despite another out-of-form display, Mavididi remained on the pitch as Leicester chased a winner. The winger has now failed to score or assist from open play since the New Years’ Day win over Huddersfield Town.

After the game, Maresca defended the forward’s form but admitted he must improve in one area of his game. “Stephy has to improve. a little bit, his body language,” the City boss said.

“As you said, in the first 5 minutes, two or three times, they pushed him from behind and no foul. We haven’t been lucky with this referee. In 2 games, [he’s] probably cost us some points.”

“It’s part of the season where he’s not been at his best. For some weeks, he’s been very good. It’s something normal, when you are in March and you play almost 45 games, between Championship, Carabao Cup and FA Cup. They are human beings and sometimes during the season they can be tired. It is what it is.”

“No [tempted to replace him with Wanya Marcal or Marc Albrighton]. If you remember, after Leeds away, I said it was probably my mistake to change Stephy. So now before I change him, I think more. [Albrighton and Wanya] could be an option. Stephy is always there, something can happen. At least he gave us a good feeling