Leicester news: Opinion – Forest defeat contained ‘a sloppiness you see too often this season’

The match on Friday, under the lights and a tough derby match – Leicester fans knew it would be tough against an in-form Nottingham Forest team, but there was some confidence that we could maybe win three out of three.

The starting XI was received with elation. Abdul Fatawu started together with fan favorite Ricardo Pereira. Finally! Victor Kristiansen was injured, but regardless of the circumstances we all wanted Pereira to play much earlier this season.

However, what unfolded in an exciting first half was a sloppiness that we have seen all too often this season.

Man of the hour Facundo Buonanotte showed some naivety on the edge of his own penalty area and tried to dribble out when all that was needed on the pitch was a simple hoof. Goal one.

A poor pass from Harry Winks to a stationary Fatawu caused possession to be lost, leading to an excellent back-to-goal finish from Chris Wood. Goal two.

Goal three (I’m even cringing as I type this) was a defensive disaster. A hopeful ball over the top caused chaos between the two centre-backs and Wout Faes headed the ball straight into Wood’s path for him to nod home. A disaster. Basics of defense – never let it bounce.

Cooper gave the fans the team they wanted on Friday, but the frequency of individual mistakes meant any hope of a successful performance was lost, and I don’t think Cooper should be dragged over the coals for that.

That said, he could have adjusted the formation, forced the wingers wide against Forest’s narrow defense and kept Pereira as a traditional right-back rather than turning over possession, causing us to lose possession frequently and quickly.

If the players can’t do the basics properly, you become the reason for your own downfall. Do the simple things well and greater things will follow.

Find more from Kate Blakemore at Leicester until I die, external