Mendy Hails City Defence

- Claudio Ranieri’s men recorded a goalless Premier League draw at the Riverside Stadium on Monday 

- Mendy felt playing in a midfield three alongside Daniel Amartey and Andy King worked well for the Foxes 

Papy Mendy spoke highly of Leicester City’s defensive display following Monday’s goalless Premier League draw at Middlesbrough. 

The Foxes limited Aitor Karanka’s men to few goalscoring opportunities, while at the other end, could have arguably won the game following chances for Christian Fuchs and Leonardo Ulloa. 

But City can be content with a draw having played just two days earlier, as they built on New Year’s Eve’s 1-0 victory over West Ham United. 

Mendy told LCFC TV after the game: “We’re very happy because it’s a good point away from home. We played against a good team – Middlesbrough played very well. 

“We got a clean sheet today, so as a team we’re very happy. Altogether, the defenders are very happy. 

“We’ve started the year well. It’s important not to lose so that we go back to Leicester with one point.” 

Claudio Ranieri opted for a three in midfield against Boro, deploying Andy King, Daniel Amartey and Mendy – a system that the Frenchman felt worked well. 

Mendy added: “We play together – me, Kingy (Andy King) and Daniel [Amartey]. We tried to play well and we did so today with three players in midfield. 

“It’s important for the players to play. For me, it was a chance to play and give my best. Now, I’ll recover well and the manager will choose.”