Mac the (sheathed) knife

Fiery centre-back Paddy McCarthy, set for an instant return to the City team after a two-match suspension, promises a calmer exterior on his comeback against Millwall at the Walkers on Boxing Day.

'I've learned my lesson,' McCarthy said on the Blue Army website, adding that his manager has also emphasised what is required.

The 22-year-old Rupublic of Ireland defender admits he let everyone down 'manager, staff, supporters and team-mates' when dismissed for arguing over Matthew Kilgallon's controversial winning goal for Leeds at Elland road recently.

Now the man manager Craig Levein regards as all but vital to the stability of his back line promises he will become a man of 'controlled aggression'in future.

'It was really frustrating watching. I have wanted to be out there doing my bit for the cause,' said the young man who is fast becoming a fans favourite for his 100 per cent commitment to every game and unflinching attitude to every tackle.

McCarthy's return will give the manager chance to return to the McCarthy/Gerrbrand combination which has seemed so steady at the heart of Leicester's defence in recent weeks.

One problem will be who replaces the suspended Alan Sheehan at left-back (with Maybury, Stearman and Nils Eric Johansson the likely contenders).

Another potential headache will be choosing who to leave out from a potential midfield of Sylla, Hughes, Gudjonsson, Kisnorbo and Williams.

Now injury free Steve Hughes and right in form Joey Gudjonsson would seem certain starters but the question is, will the manager persist with Sylla on the right or play, say, Hughes there and leave Kisnorbo as the defensive midfielder.

Both Sylla and Williams (family bereavement) missed some training this week but Levein has, so far, much favoured 4-4-2 with two recognised wingers.

The question will be how adventurously he elects to play against a Millwall side likely to be revitalised by their new manager.

Taking the reins in a surprise move is assistant David Tuttle who, at 33, faces Leicester in his first challenge as the youngest manager in the Championship.

Tuttle, formerly assistant manager, replaces ex-Leicester City man Colin Lee.

In a move orchestrated after a meeting involving new Millwall chairman Peter de Savary, chief exectuive Ken Brown and director Constantine Gonticas, Lee accepted a new role as Director of Football.

The understanding is that Tuttle, who has never managed a professional club, will have the job until at least the end of the season and that some money will be made available for players.

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