Nugent Urges Leicester Players to Show Commitment to New Manager

Former Leicester City striker David Nugent stated that he observed no “fight” or “work-rate” from the Foxes after they conceded a third goal, making the score 3-1 against Brentford at Gtech Community Stadium, particularly noting the presence of new manager Ruud van Nistelrooy. Speaking on BBC Radio Leicester’s When You’re Smiling podcast, Nugent remarked: “It was a hard watch, especially towards the end, after such a positive start. It just felt like the players gave up. The third goal killed us.” Nugent further commented on the second half, stating, “In the second half, we didn’t even lay a glove on them.” He did, however, highlight positive individual performances, noting that “[Stephy] Mavididi came on and looked sharp” and “Luke Thomas was excellent throughout – even though we were beaten 4-1, he kept their danger man [Bryan] Mbeumo really quiet.” He conveyed his frustration, explaining, “It is frustrating because sometimes, in these games, you need that fight and I didn’t see that.” Nugent added that when a team is struggling, “you are looking for someone to make a tackle or close someone down,” but he “didn’t see any work-rate.” Addressing Van Nistelrooy’s attendance, Nugent stated: “It’s not ideal getting beaten 4-1 when you have your new manager watching in the stands. He is probably thinking: ‘On Tuesday, what am I going to do?'” Nugent speculated on the new manager’s perspective, suggesting, “He probably looked at that performance and saw two players who made an impression. It is not enough.” He emphasized the need for players to demonstrate their desire, asserting, “You need to show the new manager you want to play for this club – and I didn’t see that.” He concluded his observation by saying, “I saw 60 minutes of players looking like they didn’t want to be outside on the football pitch.” Reflecting on his own experience, Nugent acknowledged, “I’ve played in games when you are 4-1 down and it is hard to keep going,” but stressed the importance of effort for the fans who “have travelled from Leicester all the way down to London. They will respect you more if you show effort on the pitch.” Nugent concluded by stating, “The least you can do at that scoreline is try your hardest, but I didn’t see any of that.”