Knockaert Enjoying English Game

The France Under-21 international is the talk of the npower Championship after his astonishing double in Tuesday night’s 2-0 win at Huddersfield Town.

And as he prepares for Leicester’s return to King Power Stadium against Bristol City this Saturday, Knockaert, a summer signing from Guingamp, says he is enjoying his transition to the English game.

“The football is different here because the players give their lives for it,” said the 20-year-old forward.

“In France, it’s not the same intensity. The play is a lot quicker and for me I think it is better to be playing in England.

“I think it (his first goal at Huddersfield) was the best goal of my career. I’m very happy for the team, for the fans and I hope it will help us for Saturday.”

City manager Nigel Pearson was full of praise for his talented young Frenchman, whose ability to bring supporters out of their seats has already earned him a tag of ‘fans ‘ favourite’.

But he warned Knockaert could quickly become a target for opposition teams aware of his ability to influence games.

“He gives us something different and it was nice for him and good for everybody to see what he is capable of,” said Pearson.

“The danger is that the expectation is now ramped up and it’s important we keep him grounded. He’s a super lad, he’s good to work with, but we know people may now target him.

“He gives us something slightly different. He’s popular with the players and he showed the other night that he is capable of producing something out of the ordinary, which is nice to have.”