Pearson: We're Fractions Away

The Foxes worked hard throughout, and had plenty of chances to win the game, particularly Chris Wood’s second half penalty, which struck the crossbar.

In the end it was a point which ended a run of three defeats in all competitions and a performance that showed plenty of encouragement going into what will be a testing set of games in coming weeks, starting with Blackburn at King Power Stadium on Saturday.

“That’s the first bit of disappointment Chris has had to deal with since he’s been here,” said Pearson of the penalty miss.

“He’s a level headed lad and these things happen. We’ve had other opportunities as well but there’s no doubt that was a key point in the game.

“On what is an awful pitch I think the players applied themselves pretty well.

“Again we’ve had chances to win it, and it’s a bit of a tough time for us at the minute in terms of turning opportunities into wins, but what you have to do in these situation is continue to apply yourselves properly, and I think the players did that today.

“We’re fractions away at the minute from collecting maximum points in games, but that’s something that we’re going to have to deal with. It’s not what we want, but the only way to get through spells like this is to work hard.

On-loan Spurs striker Harry Kane made his debut for City against Blackpool, starting in a changed 4-3-3 formation alongside David Nugent and Wood in attack.

The 19-year-old won City’s penalty and went close with a powerful first half volley in a promising first performance in a blue shirt.

Pearson explained: “We had a difficult run and I decided to freshen it up [with a 4-3-3].

“I think it surprised them because they went 4-4-2 for the first time this season so we’ve got players who are capable of playing that way.

“Harry Kane coming in today gave us another option and it’s always worthwhile freshening a team up that’s not winning.

“I think it was a good debut, he showed a lot of tactical awareness today and his understanding of our system was very good. I’m delighted to have him on board.”