Leicester City manager Steve Cooper praised Ghanaian forward Jordan Ayew as a “super-sub” after the 33-year-old netted a dramatic stoppage-time goal to earn his team a 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town on Saturday. Ayew’s last-gasp strike denied Ipswich their first league win of the season and continued his impactful performances off the bench, following another recent late goal that clinched a comeback win for Leicester against Southampton.
Ayew entered the game in the 86th minute and delivered a critical equalizer just before the final whistle, showcasing his knack for making an impact even in limited playing time.
This latest contribution comes after he scored a decisive goal in Leicester’s 3-2 victory over Southampton, where he came on as a substitute in the 68th minute to seal the win.
Despite his consistent match-winning efforts, Ayew is yet to secure a regular place in Leicester’s starting lineup, a situation that Cooper admits is challenging.
It’s tough not starting him, to be honest,” Cooper said after the match.
He won’t want that to be his Leicester career.
Cooper noted that Ayew’s desire to be more than a super-sub is evident, and it reflects the forward’s ambition to contribute on a broader scale for the Foxes.
When asked about the decision to keep Ayew on the bench, Cooper explained that it was a tactical choice aimed at exploiting Ipswich’s defensive structure.
We felt we needed the two wingers at the start of the game.
We felt we could hurt Ipswich down the sides,” he explained, adding that Ipswich’s tendency to close off the middle while allowing play down the wings shaped Leicester’s game plan.
With this strategy in mind, Cooper opted for Abdul and Stephy to occupy the wide positions, believing their play on the flanks could create scoring opportunities.
We wanted to get our wide players in places where they could make a difference,” he noted.
Jamie Vardy, who Cooper said “is playing well and is good for a goal at the moment,” was also selected to lead the line.
However, Cooper acknowledged that leaving Ayew out of the starting eleven was far from easy.
It was tough to leave Jordan out, but at the same time brilliant to bring him on,” he remarked. “The lads who came on did well and made a difference, and those who stayed on and came off also contributed as well.”
Since joining Leicester City from Crystal Palace last summer, Ayew has been a standout performer, consistently delivering in high-stakes moments.
His late-game heroics have won over fans and added depth to a Leicester squad looking to contend for promotion this season.
Cooper, however, understands that Ayew’s determination to earn a starting spot is fueled by his competitive spirit and desire to help the team from the outset.
As Leicester navigates a demanding season, Ayew’s ability to turn games around has proven invaluable, but Cooper’s careful handling of the lineup suggests a strategic approach to his rotation.
While Ayew’s impact as a substitute has been undeniable, it remains to be seen if Cooper will eventually find a way to integrate him more regularly into the starting squad.
Leicester’s next fixture could offer further opportunities for Ayew, as Cooper continues to balance his side’s tactical requirements with the contributions of a forward who has already proven to be a game-changer.
With Ayew’s recent performances making a compelling case, Leicester fans may soon see the Ghanaian forward earning more minutes as the club seeks to build on its momentum in the league.
