A decade ago, back in September 2016, Leicester City were preparing for a Champions League campaign, a testament to how far the club had risen. Fast forward to today, and the Foxes find themselves languishing in 17th place in League One – the poorest league position the club has ever occupied since joining the Football League in 1894.
The current season has been a nightmare for manager Russell Martin. In his first five league fixtures he has secured only a single victory, and the latest setback was a crushing 4-0 defeat on home turf against Oxford United.
The disappointment was palpable at the King Power Stadium, where supporters could be heard chanting, "You're getting sacked in the morning," a stark reflection of the pressure Martin faces after a troubled spell at Southampton and a challenging stint at Rangers. Despite the gloom, there are voices that believe a turnaround is possible. Former Leicester assistant manager Michael Appleton expressed optimism on Sky Sports News' The EFL Show, acknowledging the difficulty of the situation but pointing to Martin's experience as a potential asset. Appleton noted, "Russell Martin is a very experienced guy now.
It was always going to be a difficult job, with big expectations from a club that not too long ago was playing in the Premier League and winning the Premier League." He reminded listeners that Martin has only three league wins across his tenures at Southampton, Rangers and Leicester in 28 attempts, underscoring the uphill battle. Appleton stressed the urgency of reversing the trend, saying, "Losing 4-0 at home, along with the results against Plymouth and Burton, makes it a very difficult start. They've got to start winning games very quickly to address it." He suggested that Martin could draw on past hardships to calm his squad, sharing insights on how to manage pressure and maintain composure during adversity. "It's still very early and there are some good games coming up for them," Appleton added, noting that home defeats feel particularly painful for both players and fans.
Reading co‑CEO Joe Jacobson offered another perspective, highlighting the inexperience of Leicester's current roster. "They've got a really young team at the minute," he said, pointing out that bench selections often replace seasoned professionals with younger, less seasoned players. Jacobson argued that this youthfulness can amplify pressure, especially in a stadium where supporters are eager for a return to former glories.
He reminded listeners of Martin's earlier tenure at Southampton, where a four‑game losing streak in September was followed by an unbeaten run that lasted until February, suggesting that Martin knows how to halt a slide and rebuild momentum. Jacobson also touched on the broader context of club ownership and fan sentiment. The recent announcement that Leicester is up for sale has stirred unease among supporters, reminiscent of turbulence at Reading when ownership changes were proposed.
"When they recently came out and talked about wanting to sell the club and actively looking for a buyer, straight away the fans almost say, 'Well, you don't care now. You just want out. That's your main focus,'" Jacobson explained.
This disconnect can erode fan confidence, making it harder for the manager to galvanise the team. Looking ahead, Leicester's next challenge is an away match against Stockport County, who currently sit third in League One. The contrast between the clubs' recent histories is stark: a decade ago, Stockport were competing in the National League North, yet they now host the Foxes as clear favourites at Edgeley Park. The road ahead for Martin and his squad is fraught with obstacles, but it is not without hope.
To revive their fortunes, several key factors must align: 1. **Immediate Results**: The team needs to secure points quickly, preferably through a win in the upcoming Stockport fixture, to halt the psychological decline that accompanies a string of defeats. 2.
**Youth Development and Integration**: While the squad's youthfulness can be a liability, it can also be a strength if the players receive proper guidance and confidence from the coaching staff. Structured mentorship from senior players and targeted training can accelerate their adaptation to the rigors of senior football. 3.
**Clear Tactical Identity**: Martin must establish a distinct playing style that leverages the squad's strengths. Whether that means a high‑pressing approach, a possession‑based system, or a pragmatic, counter‑attacking setup, consistency will help players understand their roles and reduce on‑field confusion. 4. **Fan Engagement**: Rebuilding trust with the fanbase is essential.
Transparent communication about the club's direction, especially amid ownership uncertainty, can foster a united front. Community events, open training sessions, and regular updates may help bridge the growing divide.
5. **Stability in the Boardroom**: A clear plan regarding the club's ownership and long‑term vision will alleviate anxieties that trickle down to the dressing room. When players and staff feel secure about the club's future, they can focus solely on performance. Historically, Leicester City have demonstrated resilience, most famously with their improbable Premier League triumph in 2015‑16.
That achievement was built on belief, tactical acumen, and a collective spirit that defied expectations. If Martin can harness those same qualities—drawing on his own past experiences, fostering a supportive environment for his young players, and rallying the fanbase—there is a realistic pathway back to stability and, eventually, success. In summary, Leicester's current plight under Russell Martin is undeniably severe, marking the lowest league position in over a century.
Yet, seasoned voices like Michael Appleton and Joe Jacobson argue that the manager's experience, combined with strategic adjustments and renewed fan support, could spark a revival. The upcoming clash with Stockport County will be a crucial litmus test; a positive result could inject much‑needed confidence, while another defeat might deepen the crisis. Regardless of the outcome, the club must address on‑field performance, squad composition, tactical clarity, fan relations, and ownership transparency if it hopes to climb out of this historic low and restore its proud legacy.