Harry Winks Set for Extended Spell on the Bench, Reports BBC Sport
BBC Sport has reported that Leicester City midfielder Harry Winks is expected to spend a significant spell on the bench following a recent dip in form and tactical adjustments made by manager Enzo Maresca. The decision marks a surprising development for one of the club’s most consistent performers last season, and it has sparked intense discussion among fans and analysts alike.
According to the BBC report, the coaching staff believes Winks needs time to rediscover his sharpness and confidence after a series of underwhelming performances. While the England international remains a respected figure within the squad, sources suggest that his recent displays have not met the standards required for a starting role in Leicester’s evolving midfield structure.
Winks, 29, joined Leicester City from Tottenham Hotspur with the aim of revitalizing his career, and he initially impressed with his control, vision, and composure on the ball. However, as the season progressed, his influence on games appeared to fade. Critics point to a lack of intensity and defensive solidity in key moments—issues that have reportedly prompted Maresca to turn to alternative midfield options who bring more physicality and pressing energy to the side.
BBC Sport notes that the decision is not disciplinary but purely tactical. Maresca is believed to be reshaping his midfield to cope with the demands of the Championship’s fast-paced fixtures and to provide greater balance between attack and defense. As a result, Winks has found himself slipping down the pecking order, behind emerging talents and new signings who have impressed in recent weeks.
Insiders close to the club have confirmed that Winks remains professional and determined despite the setback. He is said to be working tirelessly in training to win back his place and adapt to the new tactical expectations. The coaching staff continues to praise his attitude and leadership in the dressing room, but for now, it appears his immediate future lies as an impact substitute rather than a first-choice starter.
Pundits have also shared their opinions on the situation. Former Premier League midfielder Jermaine Jenas told BBC Radio 5 Live that Winks “still has the technical quality to control a game” but added that “he needs to rediscover that edge and aggression that made him stand out in his early Tottenham days.” Others have argued that Leicester’s new style simply doesn’t suit Winks’ natural rhythm as a deep-lying playmaker, suggesting that he might need to adjust his game—or even consider a move—if the situation persists.
Among fans, reactions have been divided. Some Leicester supporters believe the decision is justified, citing the team’s recent improvements in midfield dynamism without Winks. Others feel the experienced midfielder has been unfairly sidelined, pointing out his consistent performances last season when the club was pushing for promotion.
Regardless of opinion, the BBC report emphasizes that Winks’ future could hinge on how he responds to this challenge. If he can regain form and adapt to Maresca’s evolving system, opportunities could arise later in the season, especially given the physical demands of a long campaign. However, if the current trend continues, speculation about a potential transfer in the upcoming window could intensify.
For now, Harry Winks remains focused on contributing in whatever way he can, even from the sidelines. The situation serves as a reminder of football’s unforgiving nature—where form, fitness, and tactical fit can determine a player’s fortunes almost overnight. As one club insider told BBC Sport, “Winks is too good a professional to disappear quietly. If anyone can fight his way back, it’s him.”
Still, until that comeback materializes, fans may have to get used to seeing Harry Winks starting from the bench—an unexpected twist for a player once viewed as one of Leicester City’s midfield mainstays.
