Leicester City manager Russell Martin has given injury updates on Ben Nelson, Will Alves, Conor Chaplin and Alex McCarthy after the 2-1 defeat to Genoa in a pre-season friendly at the King Power Stadium on August 2, 2026. Nelson left the field in the first half after receiving treatment for his right knee, while Alves missed the match entirely after sitting out a behind-closed-doors loss to Coventry City earlier in the day.
What happened to Ben Nelson and Will Alves?
Nelson, who has impressed during pre-season, was forced off in the first half against Genoa after receiving treatment for his right knee. Martin said the extent of the injury should be clearer in the next couple of days but hopes it is not serious. The 20-year-old defender has shown significant development this summer, and the club will monitor his knee's reaction closely.
Alves, back from his loan spell at Huddersfield Town, has also been a standout performer in pre-season, scoring against Northampton Town and Burton Albion. The 21-year-old winger trained individually on Friday due to a minor knock but was back on the grass on Saturday. Martin confirmed that Alves will definitely be involved in next weekend's Carabao Cup first-round tie at Northampton Town.
What about Conor Chaplin and Alex McCarthy?
New signings Chaplin and McCarthy also missed the Genoa match with minor knocks. Martin is hopeful both could feature in the Carabao Cup tie, and if not, he is confident they will be ready for the League One opener away at Notts County. The manager stressed that no risks will be taken with their fitness.
What comes next for Leicester City?
Leicester City will now turn their attention to the Carabao Cup first-round tie at Northampton Town next weekend. With Alves set to return and Chaplin and McCarthy expected to be fit, Martin will have more options at his disposal. The focus will then shift to the League One opener away at Notts County, where the Foxes will aim to start their campaign on a positive note.
