We Denied Them Space, Says Rodgers
- Brendan Rodgers says Leicester City were effective in denying Arsenal space during their 1-0 Premier League success at Emirates Stadium
- Jamie Vardy headed home Cengiz Ünder’s cross for the winning goal in London
- Rodgers was thrilled with the impact of both substitutes
A header from substitute Jamie Vardy secured the Foxes a first away win against the Gunners for 47 years, despite Mikel Arteta’s side having a goal disallowed after only four minutes.
City grew into the game and delivered a brilliant second-half display to secure their third-straight away win in the Premier League this term.
“I don’t know about masterplan, but it was the plan!” Rodgers said of Vardy’s match-winning introduction. “It was the idea to deny space and keep our lines tight, and then obviously play through the pressure, so yes, it worked very well for us.
“I thought we started the game well, first five or 10 minutes. We had good possession and then, of course, when you come away to play against any top team, you’re going to have to deal with pressure.
“That’s very, very important. You have to be able to work through that and play through it, and the players did that.
“Then, into the second half, our lines were even tighter, we were in a better start position for our pressure, and then we enjoyed a lot more of the ball and always looked a threat.”
Substitutes Vardy and Cengiz Ünder linked up for the winning goal at Emirates Stadium, and Rodgers says his side’s crucial attacking move proved to be one of great quality.
“I thought the goal was the real moment of quality in the game,” he added. "It was an incredible pass by Youri [Tielemans] but he needs the run and Cengo (Cengiz Ünder) makes his run in behind, squares it, and then Jamie will always be in there to score.
“His touch was terrific, he takes a forward touch. I think when he had his first opportunity, it just popped out to the side and he was only into the game then, but he possesses great quality.
“He needs to get fitter, that’s the message for him and he knows that. He’s behind everyone else in terms of fitness.”