Pearson taking no risks with Foxes loanee Waghorn

The England Under-21s striker, on loan from the Foxes until January, will again be missing for the Tigers today at Nottingham Forest through injury but he has still made a positive impact since moving to the KC Stadium in September.

Waghorn’s all-round play has been hugely impressive in five appearances that have yielded one goal, which came in last month’s 1-1 draw at Doncaster Rovers.

That run of games came to an end dye to a hamstring injury sustained on international duty earlier this month but Pearson still views Waghorn as an important member of his squad.

It is why the City manager is hoping the recent sacking of Sven Goran Eriksson and subsequent search for a new manager by Leicester City does not impact on the striker’s loan spell.

The Tigers chief said: “I don’t believe so, no. But, again, without getting into too much detail, we have got him until January and I want to get as many games in him as possible.

“We will have to see what happens but all I am looking at is making sure we get him back fit and then he can contribute in the positive manner he has done so far.”

Waghorn’s absence through injury means Pearson is again likely to partner Matty Fryatt and Aaron Mclean up front after the pair both netted in last weekend’s win over Watford.

The Leicester striker is nearing a return to full fitness but will not be risked due to Pearson wanting to make sure he is available for the rest of the campaign.

He said: “We just want to get Martyn right so that when he is back, he is back.

“Unfortunately, it is not quite there and we don’t think it is worth the risk. I would rather he missed one more game and is then back for the rest of his time here.

“He is frustrated because he wants to be out there playing football. Nick Barmby is the same but that is the nature of football.

“Martin Pusic is another one. He picked up an injury at Brighton that he wasn’t really aware of at the time but a scan later revealed a slight tear in his hip.

“That has made it difficult for him to train but, hopefully, he will be back in a week or so.”

The Tigers go into today’s game seven points clear of their hosts.