Albrighton: Europa League Has Brought Focus
- Marc Albrighton believes Leicester City’s UEFA Europa League journey has brought focus to their squad
- The Foxes No.11 spoke to the media ahead of Thursday’s fixture versus AEK Athens
- A win for City would see them top Group G having already qualified for the Round of 32 stage
Just four days after their 2-1 win at Sheffield United in the Premier League, the Foxes welcome Greek opposition to Leicester before taking on Brighton & Hove Albion in a domestic clash on Sunday.
Now into his seventh season as a City star, Albrighton’s second European journey with the Football Club means he knows the rigours of playing frequently at the highest level.
The 31-year-old 2015/16 Premier League champion believes his side has so far taken the packed fixture schedule in their stride as they prepare for their sixth and final Group G match.
“I think we’ve coped with it very well,” Albrighton said. “I know there was a lot made last time we were in Europe that our league form stuttered a little bit but this season we’ve coped very well.
“Personally, I’ve enjoyed it. I think it brings more of a focus. You’ve got no time to ease up on your focus in either competition, so I think from that point of view, it’s very good.”
Having secured qualification to the Round of 32 stage with a late 3-3 draw with SC Braga last month, City’s target is now to finish top of their pool, Albrighton says.
It is a feat that can be guaranteed with a victory against Athens on Thursday, regardless of second-placed Braga’s result against Zorya Luhansk.
“My view is that we go into every game hell for leather, whether we need a result, or we don’t need a result,” Albrighton continued.
“There’s always a reason to win a game, whether that’s to progress in a tournament or to keep the winning mentality. It’s never good to lose a game.
“It can only be a negative to lose a game. We need to go there with a good mentality and get a positive result.
“We have spoken about what a good opportunity it is for us. We’ve seen English clubs do well in it in previous years and we’re looking to do the same.
“As well, it’s good for the squad. We’ve got a very big squad here and if we were just fighting on one front, it’ll decrease game time for players and that leaves players unhappy.
“We’ve got so many games with European competition and going into December with the hectic Christmas and festive period, there are games every few days and that means players are needed, whether you’re a regular or on the fringes.
“Everyone’s going to be needed, and that helps the squad and the manager’s decision. That can only be a positive.”