Pearson: Nugent In Contention

Midfielder Andy King, meanwhile, remains side-lined with his calf problem, but has made significant progress after picking up a knock against Chelsea. 

“Nugent is back in the reckoning which is a big plus for us,” Pearson said. “I’d rule Andy King out for this weekend, but he’s made very good progress and has done quite a bit of training, but not with the group today. 

“If circumstances were slightly different then there would be a possibility of him being involved. He’s an important player for us so it’s in anyone’s interests to push him, so we’ll rule him out just on that basis. Everybody else really looks like they’ll be available for the weekend.” 

Pearson went on to explain the benefit of not having a midweek fixture for Jamie Vardy, who has been nursing a foot problem in recent weeks. 

The City boss continued: “It’s a similar sort of situation as it’s been for a few weeks. We’re trying to manage the load. We’ve had a free week so it’s given us a bit of time to give him a bit more of a rest. He’ll go into the preparation to the game in the same way that he has for the last few games."

With striker Leonardo Ulloa and defender Marcin Wasilewski also fit for the weekend’s game, Pearson added: “We’ve had a few bumps and bruises, but nothing that’s not manageable. Ulloa’s training. 

“We could afford to take Wasyl off (against Newcastle) because we were in a pretty strong position during last week’s game. It’s always preferable if you can do that during games to protect players. Again, he’s available.”