Leicester City's steep decline mirrored in FA Cup First Round draw

Leicester City's rapid decline is evident in their recent FA Cup First Round draw. Just five years ago, the team was celebrating their victory at Wembley, but now they find themselves in League One and face a first-round tie for the first time since 2008. Russell Martin's side, currently sitting 14th in the table, will travel to Oxford City, a sixth-tier team in third place of the National League North.

The stark contrast between their 2021 FA Cup win and their current position is difficult to ignore. Leicester is now rebuilding their fortunes and will face a trip to an artificial pitch non-league ground. Other notable ties involve League One clubs, such as Sheffield Wednesday facing Oldham Athletic and Bradford City hosting Marine.

The draw has also produced an unusual family affair, with Peterborough United manager Robbie Savage facing off against his son Charlie, who plays for Reading, in an all-League One tie. While the FA Cup's appeal often lies in the potential for an underdog to make a big impact, Leicester's situation highlights the stark reality they now face.

One other non-league side to watch is Step 8 AFC Rushden & Diamonds, who have reached this stage after defeating five opponents and will now face Burton Albion. However, for Leicester, the draw serves as a reminder of just how far they have fallen from the heights they reached just a few years ago.