The Blue Army Really Make A Difference, Says Rodgers

- Leicester City host Villarreal at King Power Stadium on Wednesday (7:45pm kick-off)
- It will be the final pre-season friendly before the FA Community Shield next Saturday
- Manager Brendan Rodgers is excited to see his side face the UEFA Europa League winners
- The 48-year-old is also pleased to be able to welcome the Blue Army back to Filbert Way

After tackling Burton Albion, Wycombe Wanderers and Queens Park Rangers so far this summer, City's pre-season plans step up again this week as they entertain Unai Emery's UEFA Europa League winners on Filbert Way on Wednesday (7:45pm kick-off).

Rodgers is excited to see his Leicester team take on the Spanish outfit – and to host a large following from the Blue Army at the Club's home venue. Although 8,000 were able to attend the final fixture of 2020/21, there is no limit on Wednesday's attendance, and tickets remain on general sale.

"We're playing the Europa League champions, a team that were absolutely outstanding in that tournament last season, and it's just each step in each game, we're playing," the Northern Irishman said. "The competition is increasing, so to play against them at home at the stadium, I'm really looking forward to it.

"Like I said, both teams are still in early parts of the preparation phase, but it's always good to play good opponents. They were one of the best teams in Europe last season, so it will be a nice examination for us."

On the return of fans to King Power Stadium, Rodgers added: "They really make the difference for us, the supporters, and even in the games that we've had away, we could hear them.

"They travelled in numbers, so we really, really appreciate that because, especially coming down to Wycombe, it's quite a journey of an evening.

"But they were there in their numbers and they give the team great support in what is a preparation phase of the season. To get them back at home, we've missed them over the last 18 months. They play a huge part in our game and how we want to play.

"That will be fantastic to have them and connect with them again back in the stadium."

Following that encounter with Villarreal, Leicester's Emirates FA Cup holders head to capital on Saturday to face Premier League champions Manchester City in the FA Community Shield – with the Club bidding to win the pre-season competition for the second time in their history.

"That's the last preparation game before the beginning of the season," Rodgers continued. "To play a full house at Wembley, to go back to Wembley again, where we had the most amazing day, a real historical day, and another chance to get some silverware early on in the season.

"Even though it's the preparation phase, we want to go out into the game and when there's something to win, we want to try and win it. It will be a great day, and again, there will hopefully be more supporters in the stadium and it'll be a good contest."

All times BST.