Russell Martin has spoken ahead of what he described as a significant moment for the club, with Leicester City preparing to host Burton Albion in their first home league fixture of the 2026-27 League One season.

A landmark occasion at the King Power

Playing in front of their own supporters for the first time in the league this season carries obvious weight for a club of Leicester's size and recent history. Martin acknowledged the occasion, stressing the importance of building an atmosphere and a home fortress early in what promises to be a competitive third-tier campaign.

The head coach was keen to channel the mood within the squad. After a mixed start on the road, the opportunity to perform in front of their own supporters offers the players a chance to establish the kind of home form that promotion-chasing sides depend on over the course of a long season.

Martin's message to his squad

Speaking ahead of the Burton fixture, Martin focused on the mentality he wants his side to carry into the match. He called on the squad to feed off the crowd and to play with the confidence that a home crowd can generate. The title of the BBC Radio Leicester preview, "When You're Smiling", reflects the positive mood Martin is trying to cultivate in spite of the squad trimming and off-pitch uncertainty that has surrounded the club in recent weeks.

Leicester have been navigating a turbulent summer. Reports that the club's owners placed the club up for sale, combined with a busy period of player departures, meant pre-season was far from routine. Despite that backdrop, Martin has consistently stressed focus on what can be controlled: performances on the pitch.

Burton Albion arrive as a stern test

Burton Albion provide the opposition, and Martin will be respectful of the challenge they bring. The Brewers are a well-organised side accustomed to competing at this level, and a first home league game is never a formality regardless of the occasion.

Leicester's opener at this level drew with Notts County, and subsequent results suggest the table is shaping up to be highly competitive. Getting points on the board at home, early in the campaign, could prove crucial when the promotion picture becomes clearer in the new year.

Supporters primed for a big night

Expectation among the Leicester fanbase is high. The King Power Stadium is one of the largest venues in the division by some distance, and Martin will be hoping the supporters make their presence felt from the first whistle. Home advantage in League One is not automatic, but a vocal crowd behind a well-organised team can shift games.

The match represents an opportunity to build momentum, consolidate confidence within the playing group, and send a clear signal to the rest of the division. Martin's task is to ensure the occasion inspires rather than inhibits.

Kick-off against Burton Albion is on 21 August 2026.

Frequently asked

When do Leicester City play their first home league game of the season?
Leicester City host Burton Albion on 21 August 2026 in their first home League One fixture of the 2026-27 season.
What has Russell Martin said ahead of Leicester's home opener?
Martin spoke positively ahead of the Burton Albion game, stressing the importance of feeding off the home crowd and building a strong home record early in the season.
Who are Leicester City playing in their first home League One game?
Burton Albion are the visitors for Leicester City's first home league match of the 2026-27 League One campaign.