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Matters arising at Leicester: Abdul Fatawu out for the season, Jordan Ayew being monitored
Matters arising at Leicester: Abdul Fatawu out for the season, Jordan Ayew being monitored
By: Nii Ammui Fio | 3 mins read
Leicester City has been dealt a significant blow as forward Abdul Fatawu has been ruled out for the rest of the season following an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury sustained during Ghana’s 2025 AFCON qualifier against Angola.
Meanwhile, fellow Foxes player Jordan Ayew, who also picked up an injury on international duty, is being closely monitored, with hopes of a swift recovery.
Fatawu suffered the injury during the Black Stars’ 1-1 draw in Luanda, a match where Ghana took the lead through a stunning strike by Ayew before conceding an equalizer. Fatawu required medical attention multiple times during the game and was substituted at halftime.
After undergoing surgery for the ACL tear, Fatawu confirmed he was in good spirits, but Leicester City Manager Steve Cooper acknowledged the gravity of the situation.
“It’s not good, it’s a serious injury. He’s had an ACL injury which is going to rule him out for the rest of the season. It’s a real blow, first and foremost for him,” Cooper said. “He’s a young player and having an ACL injury can be quite common, it’s part of football, but it’s still a serious injury. For it to happen at a young age is a blow for him and a blow for us.
“We’ve very much now got to support him in every way we can to make sure his rehab is as smooth and as productive as possible. We hope he can come back a stronger player and person.”
Cooper expressed his optimism for Fatawu’s recovery, emphasizing his potential despite the setback. “It’s only a pause. We’ll make sure, as difficult as this is for him, that he comes back being a stronger player and person. With the mentality he has, I think that’ll be the case.”
While Fatawu’s absence will be felt, there is some relief regarding Jordan Ayew’s condition. Cooper clarified that Ayew’s injury, also sustained during international duty, is not as serious as initially feared.
“It’s not a serious injury contrary to some reports,” Cooper explained. “The hope is he may be available for the weekend, but we’re a little bit inconclusive on that for the minute.”
In other fitness updates, Patson Daka is set to make his first appearance of the season after resuming full training, while Jamie Vardy and Bobby De Cordova-Reid are being monitored as they return to the squad.
“Patson’s back in training. He’s available. Jamie has been back training with the group, but slightly modified, so we’ll see where he is for the weekend,” Cooper stated.
Despite the injury setbacks, Cooper remains focused on maintaining a positive atmosphere within the squad as Leicester prepares for a busy festive fixture schedule.
“We’re disappointed, particularly with the Abdul situation, but we can’t dwell on these things. I don’t want any negativity. There won’t be any from me,” Cooper said. “This is a real opportunity to bring us even closer together to show who we are. That’s the sign of a strong culture and a strong group.”
Leicester City hosts Chelsea at King Power Stadium on Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 12:30 PM GMT.
