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Van Nistelrooy makes decent start - but true Leicester test to come

New Leicester City manager Ruud van Nistelrooy has made what I would certainly describe as a decent start. The Dutchman was a surprise candidate in some people's minds, but the Leicester hierarchy are always independent thinkers if nothing else. They won't be swayed by public opinion - unless the atmosphere turns what they described as "toxic". And that is exactly what occurred under one-time unwise managerial choice Claude Puel. Things were advancing that way under recently sacked boss Steve Cooper as well. Yet the latter was relieved of Foxes duty before the situation turned too negative or nasty.

Now a new man, much more favoured by the Blue Army, is in place. However, the former Manchester United striker and interim gaffer has a truly daunting upcoming task at Leicester. If RvN cannot navigate the extremely difficult run of fixtures to come - he'll be in trouble on Filbert Way, just like Cooper was. Forget attacking prowess - the much-discussed 'defensive structure' the 48-year-old is said to adopt must be utilised at the King Power and beyond for our safety.

Where to begin with the previous match. Erm, putting van Nistelrooy aside for one moment, the Leicester players weren't good enough. In addition to that, they don't seem to be following the latest boss's plans altogether either.

I'd like to pinpoint the defence in an unorganised sense: strange and unacceptable performances or instances still occur on a regular basis. I am glad that Wout Faes was finally dropped after us supporters noticed his inconsistencies. Yet Victor Kristiansen is making constantly fatal errors on the pitch as well.

The Dane doesn't seem up to the standard, while I don't question his commitment. Although I do have an issue with Kristiansen and Conor Coady's terrible/overzealous defending as Yankuba Minteh slotted home. Minteh is quality, but he telegraphed the finish. Hopefully RvN will tweak and alter going forward; goalscoring shouldn't be as much of a problem under the previously notable attacker.

The Foxes' next five games are against tougher opposition than they've faced of late. City face Newcastle United, Liverpool, Manchester City and Aston Villa in upcoming matches. Though the late equaliser against the Seagulls leaves them five points away from the Premier League relegation zone.

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