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Will Smallbone is a great signing for Leicester City – but he’s too good for them

Will Smallbone signed for Leicester City on a free after leaving Southampton

By Josh Holland · Leicester Mercury

Published: Wednesday, 14 October 2026 at 3:30 PM

Key Things to Know

Jeff Hendrick argued that new Leicester signing Will Smallbone is too good to play in League One.
Smallbone joined Leicester City on a three-year contract following his release from Southampton as a free agent.
Hendrick expressed concern over Leicester's struggles under manager Russell Martin despite praising the signing.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Former Republic of Ireland international Jeff Hendrick stated that new Leicester City midfielder Will Smallbone is a great signing but is too good to be playing in League One. Hendrick expressed surprise at Leicester's struggles under manager Russell Martin, arguing that Smallbone should instead be competing for a top Championship team.

The 26-year-old midfielder joined Leicester City on a three-year contract as a free agent following his summer release from Southampton. Smallbone previously secured promotion with Martin in 2024 and could make his debut in an upcoming League One match against Doncaster.

Read the full article on Leicester Mercury

Will Smallbone is a great signing for Leicester City – but he’s too good for them

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