UNBELIEVABLE 😱😱: Russell Martin has just revealed the surprising reason Hamza Choudhury did not play in yesterday’s match. What he said has left everyone stunned.

Russell Martin has explained why club captain Hamza Choudhury was absent from Leicester City’s latest pre-season fixture, putting an end to the speculation that followed his omission from the matchday squad.

Supporters were surprised not to see the experienced midfielder involved, particularly after he had featured prominently during the opening weeks of pre-season and was expected to play a key role under the new head coach.

However, Martin confirmed after the game that the decision was purely precautionary rather than the result of a fresh injury.

The Leicester boss explained that Choudhury had been carefully managed as the club continues to build players up to full fitness ahead of the new campaign.

The update will come as a relief to Leicester fans, with Choudhury expected to remain an important figure both on and off the pitch this season.

The Bangladesh international has returned for pre-season determined to help the Foxes respond after last season’s disappointment, and Martin has already spoken about the importance of leadership within his squad.

With several friendlies still to come before the League One campaign begins, Leicester are taking no unnecessary risks with senior players.

The focus remains on ensuring the squad is in the best possible condition for the opening competitive fixtures, meaning Choudhury is expected to be back in action once the coaching staff are satisfied the timing is right.