Leicester vs Ipswich preview: Can Vardy score in his last home game for the Foxes?

Although Leicester City and Ipswich Town have already seen their fates sealed by relegation from the Premier League, there is one final storyline to follow before the end of their 2024/25 seasons. With just one matchday remaining after this encounter, Saturday’s match at the King Power Stadium is a game of chance, especially when it comes to Premier League prize money.

The price difference between 18th and 19th place in the Premier League table is estimated at £2.8 million, and both clubs will be keen to claim the slightly more respectable spot, if not just for the financial boost, then at least to leave the top flight with some small consolation.

Leicester head into this match with a distinct advantage, sitting in 18th place thanks to a slight upturn in form, which has seen them pick up five points from their last five matches. These points include a 2-0 home win over Southampton in their last outing at the King Power Stadium, followed by a 2-2 draw at Nottingham Forest, a match that had a significant impact on the hosts’ UEFA Champions League qualification hopes.

A revival of spirit for foxes

Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy, who has yet to confirm his continued leadership of the team next season, has been praised for mobilizing his players in recent weeks. Following the confirmation of relegation, he called on his team to change their mentality and aim for a successful end to the season. After the match against Forest, he said: “I can’t thank the players enough” for accepting this change of direction.

That renewed spirit could be beneficial for Leicester in what will be their final Premier League home game for at least a season, and possibly also the final home appearance for several familiar faces in the blue shirt, including veteran striker Jamie Vardy. The 38-year-old is about to make his 500th appearance for the club and has scored six of his nine goals this season at the King Power, making him a player to watch closely for what could be an emotional farewell.

Leicester’s recent home performances have been one of the few bright spots in a disappointing season. They have scored two goals in each of their last two home games, and despite persistent defensive problems – having only managed to keep a clean sheet twice in the league this season – the home side have looked much more effective offensively in recent weeks.

Ipswich is still looking for a glimmer of hope

In contrast, Ipswich Town arrive at the King Power with little energy. Their 1-0 defeat to Brentford on the final day marked their 12th league defeat in 2025, with just one win in 17 Premier League games this calendar year (D4 L12). This form illustrates why their long-awaited return to the top flight lasted only one season. Yet manager Kieran McKenna is assured of his job beyond the summer and remains focused on a glorious end to the season.

McKenna has repeatedly stressed the importance of playing with professionalism and intensity until the final whistle, and there has been some slight improvement in performances, even if results have not followed. Their away record is encouraging, with three Premier League wins this season, including two 2-1 wins in the second half of the season.

Ipswich can look back on the first leg against Leicester in November, where they drew 1-1. Although they have not scored in their last two games, their ability to rise to the occasion on some away occasions, particularly against other struggling teams, suggests they could still pull off one last upset.

Players to Watch

Jamie Vardy will be in the spotlight as he prepares to celebrate his 500th appearance for Leicester. The club legend has scored twice in his last four outings and could be motivated to score in front of his home crowd at the King Power.

Ipswich will be counting on Julio Enciso to attack, having shown signs of quality during a difficult season.

The 20-year-old striker has scored the opening goal in two of Ipswich’s last three away games and could be the difference again if the visitors are to break down Leicester’s backline.

Hot Stats

Leicester and Ipswich share an unenviable record this season: both teams have kept just two clean sheets in the Premier League, the worst record in the division.

Prediction: Leicester 2-1 Ipswich

With their form slightly improving and the added emotional weight of a final home game for club legends like Vardy, Leicester may have the edge. Ipswich may put up some resistance, but their inability to turn promising spells into points could cost them dearly. Expect a hard fight but open encounter, with both teams looking to cap a disappointing season with a convincing result.