09.01.2025 | Football DNA ⚽️
Leicester City forward Patson Daka is the cover star of the Club’s official matchday programme for Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup tie against Queens Park Rangers. As the Foxes gear up for this critical fixture, Daka shared his thoughts on the match, the team’s current form, and the influence of new Manager Ruud van Nistelrooy.
In an interview with CITY, Daka underlined the importance of the QPR clash as a chance for Leicester to regain their confidence and momentum. He acknowledged that the game would be challenging but emphasized the team’s determination to approach it seriously and use it as a stepping stone to get back to winning ways.
“We need this game to try to help us get back our full confidence by getting back to winning ways,” Daka explained. “It’s not going to be easy, and we need to take the game seriously as it will be tough. We need to make sure it’s one that boosts our confidence.”
Progress Under Ruud van Nistelrooy
Daka also reflected on Ruud van Nistelrooy’s early tenure as Leicester’s Manager. Despite a promising start that saw the team secure four points from two matches, recent performances have been mixed. However, Daka expressed optimism about the squad’s progress and praised van Nistelrooy’s impact.
“Everyone is enjoying working under him,” he said. “He’s a great person, he’s a great Manager, and we’re all just trying to give our best for him. He’s doing the same; he’s making sure that he’s improving us every day, and everyone is excited to work every day to make sure we give our best for the team.”
The Zambian international highlighted van Nistelrooy’s efforts to build strong relationships with the players and his hands-on approach, particularly with the forwards. Daka described the Manager as the ideal mentor, noting the wealth of experience and insight he brings from his own legendary playing career.
“He’s the best person to learn from, to be honest. We have been doing so many things in training, including extra work with all the strikers. It’s good to learn from him and realize that there are so many things you can do to improve and make sure that you get to that level – even in areas you thought you were strong in.
“He has played at a high level for a long time and understands the game a lot better than I do, so I just try my best to ask questions and learn as much as I can. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be managed by one of the greats, so I’m trying to make the most of that.”
A Vital Moment for the Foxes
As Leicester prepares to face Queens Park Rangers, Daka’s insights reflect a collective resolve to turn the season around. With the FA Cup offering a fresh opportunity, the team aims to channel their hard work and newfound confidence into a strong performance.
Fans will be eager to see the Foxes rise to the occasion, with Daka and his teammates ready to make their mark under van Nistelrooy’s guidance.
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