Leicester boss makes big statement on Iheanacho after Super Eagles striker annoys football world for snubbing fair play rule

Leicester boss makes big statement on Iheanacho after Super Eagles striker annoys football world for snubbing fair play rule

Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers has backed his young forward Kelechi Iheanacho after he left Norwich players furious by failing to give the ball back when he could have observed Fairplay rule.

With Leicester City losing 1-0 midway through the first half of the game, Norwich City kicked the ball out of play with one of their players Emiliano Buendia needing treatment.

The Fairplay rule means Leicester City had to return possession to the visitors at the restart but Iheanacho played on, dribbling towards goal.

He was immediately brought down by Christoph Zimmermann as the Norwich players charged towards him to vent their anger.

The reaction from the Norwich player got Todd Cantwell booked in the 33rd minute after he placed his hands near Iheanacho's throat as VAR checked for a red card but nothing was given.

The situation needed the intervention of James Maddison who decided to pass the ball out for a goal kick to return the ball to Norwich when he could have gone for goal from the resulting free-kick.

Iheanacho's refusal to observe the Fairplay rule came with a serious repercussion as he was substituted in the 39th minute for Demarai Gray.

But when asked for his thoughts on the incident, Rodgers had this to say: "He (Iheanacho) totally misread that situation. The ball should go back. Thankfully nothing came of that.

"Most times the ball will be given back. It led to the situation which might have led to a red card which would have been an awkward one as well.

"They were disappointed that he wanted to try to get in and score. Young Kels, I'm not sure what he was thinking to be honest. He's an honest boy. He's clearly got kicked. Thankfully it was sorted out and nothing else happened."

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