Ranieri’s Fitness Update: Drinkwater & Mendy

- Nampalys Mendy is still experiencing pain in his ankle 

- Claudio Ranieri confirmed all of Leicester City’s international stars have now returned to the Club 

Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri says he is happy with the fitness of midfielder Danny Drinkwater ahead of Saturday’s Premier League trip to Chelsea. 

Drinkwater was not available for selection for England over the international break due to a minor groin injury, but has now recovered and is in good condition after training well on Thursday. 

Ranieri also confirmed that while midfielder Nampalys Mendy is fit, he is still experiencing pain in his ankle. 

“He is okay,” said Ranieri of Drinkwater’s fitness. “He made a very good session this morning (Thursday) and I am very happy. 

“He (Mendy) came back and after half an hour he went out again. It’s a little problem on his ankle. He is fit but just has a little twist or tackle and the pain is very strong.” 

Ranieri confirmed that all of the Foxes’ international stars have returned to the Club ahead of a challenging run of fixtures that sees City play six times in 22 days. 

“The last player arrived back from international this morning (Thursday),” added the City boss. “Now we have to see who has recovered well and then I choose. All the clubs have the same problem. Fortunately everybody is ok. 

“Now it is very important to maintain all of my players in very good condition and I will try to manage and rotate well my players. 

“I saw very well we played seven matches in 22 days. At the end it wasn’t so good. Now I have to rotate a little more my players. For this reason, I am waiting until tomorrow, the last training session, and then I decide.”