However, a closer look at the context and statistics reveals that Ayew’s contribution is not only respectable but actually impressive given the circumstances at Leicester this season.
Ayew joined Leicester City after the season had started and missed out on pre-season with his new club.
The Foxes have endured one of their worst attacking seasons in recent memory, going nine consecutive home games without scoring - a club record and one of the longest barren spells in Premier League history.
The team has consistently ranked near the bottom for chances created and Expected Goals (xG), making it a tough environment for any forward to shine.
For context, Leicester this season have so far scored the second-lowest number of goals (29) in the Premier League. Their 54 big chances created, 8.9 shots per game, and 30.5 xG are the worst by any side in the top flight.
Despite these challenges, Ayew has managed to score five league goals, which is 17.2% of the club’s goals, making him Leicester’s second-highest scorer this season.
He has achieved this feat in just 27 appearances, of which 11 were as a substitute, demonstrating his impact despite not always starting.
His five goals have come from an expected goals (xG) tally of 3.5, also the second-best at the club, indicating he is outperforming the quality of chances created for him.
Ayew’s efficiency is further highlighted by his minutes-per-goal ratio. With five goals in roughly 1,425 league minutes, he averages a goal every 285 minutes, a strong return for a player in a struggling attack.
The 33-year-old’s value goes beyond just scoring. He leads the team in fouls drawn (48), often winning free kicks in dangerous areas and relieving pressure on Leicester’s struggling midfield.
He is also among the top four in progressive carries and shots, showing his willingness to drive the attack even when service is limited.
His 79% pass completion rate and high defensive work rate (noted for tackles and interceptions) further demonstrate his all-round contribution.
For comparison, last season at Crystal Palace, he scored just four goals in 32 appearances-despite playing in a more settled team. His current tally already surpasses that, despite joining Leicester late and playing fewer full matches.
Ayew’s ability to deliver in an underperforming side is not new. Throughout his Premier League career, he has often played for teams fighting relegation, yet consistently ranks among their top scorers and hardest-working players.
While five goals may not seem prolific on paper, the context of Ayew’s season at Leicester makes his tally a notable achievement. He has outperformed his expected goals, contributed in multiple phases of play, and provided a rare attacking spark for a team that has struggled to create or finish chances all season.
Rather than criticism, Ayew’s efforts deserve recognition as a bright spot in a difficult campaign for Leicester City. Perhaps, the Ghanaian has proved he can be one of the few players the Leicester faithful can rely on in the Championship.
Black Star Watch is a compelling weekly column written by Owuraku Ampofo, a seasoned sports journalist with over five years of experience reporting on Ghanaian players. This column aims to uncover patterns, address pressing questions, and illuminate trending topics surrounding Ghanaian footballers.