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Ahmed Musa could enjoy Leicester rejuvenation

Michael Regan/Getty Images

Ahmed Musa marked his latest call-up to the Nigeria squad with a goal in Leicester City's 4-1 EFL Cup win over Sheffield United on Tuesday, reminding fans why he was signed by the Foxes in the first place.

The goal was the cherry on top of what was the Nigeria forward's best performance for the former Premier League champions in months, underlining exactly the sort of quality for which he was signed, but which he has struggled to replicate on a consistent basis.

Expected to be the perfect partner for Jamie Vardy when he was acquired from CSKA Moscow last July, Musa scored twice against Barcelona in preseason, but then struggled for form when the actual campaign started, leaving Leicester forced to turn to Algerian Islam Slimani.

Two goals in 18 games was a measly return for a forward, especially one of Musa's quality, and it has not been for lack of talent.

The Nigerian scored 42 goals in 125 games for CSKA, an average of a goal every three outings, and his pace was a constant source of petrification for opposition defenses.

Before that, with VVV Venlo in Holland, he averaged a goal every four games, and at Kano Pillars, his 18 goals in 25 games was almost a strike every other game.

While many players sometimes take a while to settle into the English Premier League on account of its pace and physical nature, it is exactly the sort of test that Musa's game usually thrives on, despite his slight frame.

As for the source of his struggles, that could have been down to personal issues, though allegations of domestic violence in April were strongly disputed by the player.

The forward relinquished the Nigeria captain's armband early this year too, then gave up the vice-captain role as well, before finding himself dropped to the bench in favour of Moses Simon and Alex Iwobi in the Super Eagles' wide forward positions.

With his personal life seemingly back on track with a recent new marriage, his career looks to be rejuventated, despite Leicester looking to trade him away this transfer window.

Hull City look to be the favoured destination, with Leonid Slutsky a big admirer after both men worked together successfully at CSKA.

Musa has remained coy about his options or any potential move though, refusing to comment and apparently leaving the decision down to the Foxes.

But his performance in Tuesday's clash would have been a clear message to the Leicester bosses about what they can get from a settled Musa. Would sending him out on loan at this time, or even an outright sale, be the greatest idea for Leicester at the moment?

Perhaps they might want to consider one more season - or even half a season - to check out a Musa with a clear head before easing him out the door.