Countdown to the big kick-off: Mark Stretton, Cartwright Communications
Keen to point out that he was a Leicester City fan before they became famous, Mark Stretton of Cartwright Communications gives us the lowdown on how the Foxes will fare next season.
What was the high point of last season?
Simply too many to mention. Vardy’s volley from outside the area against Liverpool, the 1-3 win away at Man City – the moment many a Foxes fan truly started to believe – and ultimately seeing captain Wes Morgan lift the Premier League trophy, something I never thought I’d see a Leicester City player do.
Favourite other team in your division?
There are photos knocking around of me aged about eight or nine wearing a Tottenham Hotspur shirt. I’m not particularly proud of these but it was in the era when they had flair players such as Hoddle and Waddle in the side, so I would probably have to say Spurs. I also have a copy of the aforementioned duo’s 7″ single Diamond Lights I somewhere – that’s something no one should ever, ever admit to!
And least favourite?
Arsenal. The way they celebrated when they beat us 2-1 at the Emirates last season with Danny Welbeck’s final minute of injury time winner beggared belief – anyone would have thought they’d just won the Champions League not beaten Leicester City at home!
Have you been happy with the close season?
I’ve been on a massive high since Jamie Vardy decided to turn down the Gunners in favour of staying at the King Power. It seemed to show the big boys could no longer have it all their own way and teams such as Leicester could match their ambition and at least get close to the wages they offer. But I’ve come back down to earth with a bump after the sale of N’golo Kante to Chelsea.
How do you think you’ll do next season?
The Foxes’ success last season was built on an incredible team spirit. Having said that there were three truly outstanding performers last term: Vardy, Kante and Mahrez. If we can keep hold of the third name in that trio I’m confident it will be another successful year. I don’t think we’ll win the league again – that was a remarkable achievement – but, and this may be my heart ruling my head, securing a Champions League spot could be possible again.
Predicted finish?
4th
