‘Confident In Our Ability’ - Soumaré Speaks To CITY

- CITY will feature an exclusive Boubakary Soumaré interview on Boxing Day
- The midfielder spoke prior to the Newcastle United clash at King Power Stadium
- The Premier League's festive fixtures return with this 3pm kick-off
- Supporters can purchase CITY for £3.50 on 26 December

A warm weather training camp, alongside a short break for rest and recovery, provided a rare opportunity to work in detail on the training pitch during the season, keeping the majority of the squad as sharp as possible during the FIFA World Cup.

Now ready for a busy spell of Premier League fixtures, starting with the match against the Magpies on Boxing Day – a 3pm kick-off at King Power Stadium – Soumaré shares his thoughts on a unique period in the football calendar.

The Frenchman told CITY: “The players who were away at the World Cup have returned now and there’s a good atmosphere around the training ground. It was a great experience to go to Abu Dhabi. It was very hot, but great for the whole team, from the staff to the players.

“We were able to integrate some of the younger lads into the group. It was good for team bonding and a great experience. After two weeks away from one another, it’s good to come together again.”

Looking ahead to the first top-flight fixture the Foxes have faced since 12 November, and the last they will host on Filbert Way in 2022, the midfielder acknowledges that it will be a difficult challenge against Eddie Howe’s side, who currently sit in the upper echelons of the Premier League table.

“I think it will be the same as every weekend in the Premier League – there’s no easy game,” the former Lille star added. “It will be tough, as they are a very good side with lots of quality.

“But we’ve been working hard and we shouldn’t be afraid of any team, whether they’re third in the table, or at the top; we’re confident in our own ability.”

Read more from Soumaré in this year’s final edition of CITY, which will be available to purchase from programme sellers around King Power Stadium on Boxing Day.