Ranieri: Simpson & Schlupp Are Ready

- Nampalys Mendy will not feature, according to Claudio Ranieri 

- Ranieri is keen to see how Islam Slimani fares in the Premier League 

Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri revealed both Danny Simpson and Jeffrey Schlupp are available for selection for Saturday’s Premier League clash with Burnley. 

The Foxes host the league new boys at King Power Stadium following Wednesday’s brilliant 3-0 UEFA Champions League win over Club Brugge. 

Ranieri also explained that Nampalys Mendy will not be fit for Saturday, as the midfielder continues his recovery from an ankle injury sustained against Arsenal in August. 

Speaking about his squad’s fitness ahead of the game, Ranieri said: “They’ve recovered very well and today (Thursday) they made a very good session. 

“For us, everything is new and I want to see how they respond. They told me they are okay and they have to show me this on the pitch. 

“Of course Burnley want to increase the tempo because they might think we’re tired but I don’t believe it. 

“Danny Simpson trained very well and he’s ready to play. [Nampalys] Mendy not yet. I think he needs another week and he starts with us. Jeff Schlupp is with us and he’s ready to play.” 

Striker Islam Slimani made his debut for the Club in the victory over Brugge and Ranieri is eager to see how the Algeria international fares when called upon in the Premier League. 

The City boss added: “I don’t know if he’s ready to play 90 minutes but it’s important for him to understand the spirit of the Premier League. 

“He knows the Champions League and the European league. The Premier League is completely different but he is an intelligent player and I’m sure if he plays he’ll do well.”