Bade Aluko has demanded Leicester City improve their slow starts after a 2-1 League One defeat to Burton Albion on Saturday. The Foxes fell 2-0 down inside half an hour and finished the match with ten men, leaving them 18th in the table with just one point.
According to a report by Josh Holland for Leicestershire Live, the right-back made his first start of the season in place of the injured Jayden Joseph. He pointed to the poor opening 20 minutes as a major factor in the loss at the Pirelli Stadium. "I just felt like the first 20 minutes wasn't us," Aluko said. "We weren't able to showcase what we've got, our ability and our unity."
What did Aluko say about Leicester's mentality?
Aluko insisted opponents are trying to test Leicester's physicality early in games. He believes some teams view the Foxes as a soft touch, an impression he is determined to change. "The first 15 minutes are probably the key times for us," Aluko explained. "Some teams think we're soft, but that's not the case."
Despite the red card shown to Oliver Skipp, Leicester fought back with a goal from Wes Burns before half-time. They created chances in the second period but could not find an equaliser. The defeat continues a difficult start to the campaign under manager Russell Martin.
How did Russell Martin react to the defeat?
Aluko revealed the manager was direct with the squad after the final whistle. "He was just telling us, obviously, we've just got to do better," the defender stated. "He had to be honest with us because obviously, we're men." Martin immediately shifted focus to the upcoming fixtures, highlighting a tough trip to Portman Road to face Ipswich Town this Tuesday. You can see the full schedule on our fixtures page.
The early season form presents a challenge. Leicester's current position of 18th is far below expectations for a club of their stature in League One. Their next match against Ipswich is followed by a visit to MK Dons, making for a busy week.
What does the data say about Leicester's start?
Integrating information from the club's verified data provides further context. The squad's average age is 25.7 years, blending experience with youth. Key midfielder Sammy Braybrooke, who is 21, has a contract running until June 2028. The team's next home game at King Power Stadium is against Cambridge United on September 13th.
| Player | Position | Age | Contract Until |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sammy Braybrooke | Midfielder | 21 | 2028 |
| Wanya Marcal | Winger | 21 | 2027 |
| Chris Mepham | Defender | 28 | 2027 |
| Harry Winks | Midfielder | 30 | 2027 |
The need for defensive solidity is clear. The team has conceded five goals in their first three league matches. You can review the latest League One standings to see how the table is shaping up. Aluko's call for a stronger opening to games is aimed at stopping this trend before it becomes a habit.
Leicester City's immediate task is to prepare for the trip to face Ipswich Town on Tuesday, September 8th.
