Tunchev in frame to replace Mills

[Jimmy]

Mockery site

Aleksandar Tunchev is ready to step in for banned Leicester City captain Matt Mills on Saturday against Peterborough United

The Bulgarian has not featured for City this season but has had a successful loan spell with Crystal Palace.

City assistant manager Craig Shakespeare said Tunchev will challenge Sean St Ledger and Sol Bamba for a starting slot against Posh.

It follows confirmation that Mills will face a two-game ban following his second red card of the season at Hull City last Saturday.

Shakespeare said they would not appeal against referee Simon Hooper's decision to dismiss Mills for tripping Aaron Mclean inside the penalty box and denying him a goalscoring opportunity during City's 2-1 defeat at the KC Stadium.

While St Ledger did well in Mills' absence, there was no guarantees for the Republic of Ireland international.

"Having looked at the sending off since I think we can't have any complaints," said Shakespeare.

"The first challenge was a terrific challenge. It is just that you could see why the referee has given it. We won't be appealing so we can understand the reasons why he gave it.

"We are missing Matt now for a couple of games but that means there is an opportunity for someone else.

"Sean is a good replacement but is not guaranteed a place. We have Tunchev as well who is fit again. He has trained for a week or so and played in a reserve game.

"That gives us a selection problem. No-one is guaranteed his place and we will weigh up the options before Saturday."

Tunchev endured a two-year injury nightmare after damaging a cruciate ligament during Shakespeare and manager Nigel Pearson's first spell with City.

Shakespeare said it was fantastic to see Tunchev back in action, and added: "He looked a good player before his injury with all the attributes he had,

"It was good to see him go to Palace to get some games because players need to play.

"Mentally it was good for him because it gave him the platform to know that he could go out there and play Saturday, Tuesday, and Saturday.

"He had a niggle but he is fine now. He is in contention and back training, and it is good for him.

"He is a good professional, good to work with and he deserves it."

great to have him back another option is always welcome

[Bert]

Check the pre match thread....