Leicester City’s El Khannouss Calls On Team-Mates To Give Everything In Final Matches

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Bilal El Khannouss has called on his Leicester City teammates to give their all as they aim to finish a challenging season positively. Leicester's relegation was confirmed in April, joining Southampton in dropping down. Ipswich Town also faced relegation last week, marking the third time in Premier League history that all three promoted clubs return to the Championship, and the second consecutive season this has occurred.

Southampton's recent defeat to Fulham was a blow, and they now aim to surpass 11 points before the season ends. Failing to do so would mean equalling Derby County's record low points tally from the 2007-08 season. Meanwhile, Leicester faces Southampton on Saturday, a match both teams see as an opportunity for a rare victory.

El Khannouss emphasised the importance of confidence in football during an interview with Leicester's official media channels after their loss to Wolves. "Confidence makes a lot in football," he stated. He stressed that players must show their best selves and represent the club positively. "We have to give everything until the end," he added.

After facing Southampton, Leicester will play against Nottingham Forest, Ipswich, and Bournemouth. El Khannouss believes there are still opportunities left for the team to prove themselves and improve their performance before the season concludes.

Aaron Ramsdale has experienced a significant downturn, moving from competing for titles with Arsenal to facing relegation with Southampton. The goalkeeper is likely keen on returning to top-flight football next season and will aim to showcase his skills in upcoming matches. However, Southampton's defence has not been supportive, having faced more shots than any other Premier League team this season.

Players to Watch

Jamie Vardy is set to leave Leicester City at the end of this season. Despite missing a penalty against Wolves last week, Vardy is just two goals away from reaching his 200th goal for the club. This milestone will surely be on his mind as he plays out his final weeks with Leicester.

Southampton's defence has been porous this season, conceding 80 goals—their highest since 1971-72—and they last conceded more in 1967-68 with 83 goals. A defeat against Leicester would confirm them finishing bottom of the league for the third time.

Match Prediction: Leicester Win

If Southampton loses against Leicester, it would mark their third time finishing last in the Premier League (also in 2004-05 and 2022-23), tying them with Sunderland for most last-place finishes. Leicester aims to complete a double over Southampton after winning their previous encounter at St Mary's Stadium.

The Opta win probability gives Leicester a 42.2% chance of victory compared to Southampton's 32.7%, while a draw stands at 25.1%. With both teams eager for redemption, Saturday’s match promises an intense battle on Filbert Way.