Claudio Ranieri hails Leicester spirit after win over Norwich
Saturday 3 October 2015 18:45, UK
Leicester manager Claudio Ranieri hailed his players’ spirit after they held on for a 2-1 win over Norwich at Carrow Road.
The Foxes seized the initiative through goals from Jamie Vardy and Jeffrey Schlupp either side of half-time before a goal from Norwich substitute Dieumerci Mbokani forced a nervy finish.
Ranieri's team were humbled last time out when they lost 5-2 at home to Arsenal but the Italian was delighted with the character his players showed to bounce back.
"We responded very well with a good performance," Ranieri said. "I am very pleased with my players because in the first half we created a lot of chances to score a goal.
"In the second half it was a battle but I enjoyed it because our concentration was good. Our keeper [Kasper] Schmeichel made two great saves.
"We conceded one goal but we had six or seven chances to score. Maybe we need to concentrate more on the last pass.
"We knew Norwich wanted to keep possession of the ball and they opened up all the space and we were ready to start and go in transition.
"We spoke at half-time about how important it was to start very well because they would push and put us under pressure. It was important to stop them and go straight away to try and score a goal."
Vardy continued his red-hot start to the season by converting a penalty to score in his fifth consecutive Premier League game.
The England international proved a constant headache for the Norwich defence with his pace and power but gave Ranieri a scare late on when he landed awkwardly on his right knee.
However the Italian confirmed Vardy is fine after speaking with him following the game.
Ranieri said: "He is okay. I thought, 'Oh my god, the injury is very serious' because I thought it was the groin but after he told it was the knee. But it was very stable and he went back on."
The win sees Leicester jump to fourth in the table but when Ranieri was asked if he is reassessing his goals for the team he said his focus remains firmly fixed on obtaining the 40 points likely needed to ensure Premier League status next season.
"We have fifteen points, 25 less [than we need]," Ranieri said. "Our ambition is this. Afterwards we will see."
