Shakespeare: We Found Our Rhythm

- Leicester City move up to 10th in the Premier League table after a Club record-equalling fifth straight victory 

- Substitute Marc Albrighton set up goals for Islam Slimani and Jamie Vardy in the second half to secure a 2-0 win over Sunderland at King Power Stadium 

- Manager Craig Shakespeare was delighted with the impact of his substitutes on the outcome of the match 

- Shakespeare insists there’s still lots of work for the Foxes to do despite a nine-point gap to the bottom three 

As Leicester City secured their fifth consecutive Premier League with a 2-0 triumph over Sunderland at King Power Stadium, Craig Shakespeare was delighted to see his side find their footing in the second half. 

With the scores tied at 0-0 after a cagey opening 45 minutes, substitutes Marc Albrighton and Islam Slimani combined for the opener before the winger again teed up Jamie Vardy for a stunning finish on his left foot. 

The result, which equals a club-record five straight Premier League wins, moves the Foxes up to 10th position in the table and nine points clear of the bottom three heading into the final eight matches of the season. 

It’s a victory that takes the Foxes one step closer to the 40-point marker and afterwards Shakespeare reflected on the many positives to come out of the fixture, not least the contribution of his substitutes. 

Shakespeare said: “I’m really pleased with the impact of the substitutions because that’s what you make them for. Obviously the first goal was going to be important and to have both substitutes involved was brilliant. 

“[Vardy’s was a] Terrific finish with his so called weaker foot and again Marc [Albrighton] was involved. He took a terrific touch and it’s something he’s capable of.” 

While the in-form Foxes are climbing the table quickly, the manager was eager to point out that there’s plenty that could happen between now and the end of the season. 

He explained: “Other teams are capable of going on runs and I’ve been in football long enough to know that anything can happen. We have to stay focused and go onto the next one. 

“We spoke at half time about trying to find that rhythm but stay patient. Of course then the first goal was always going to be important.”