Claudio: Belief In Each Other Maintaining Squad Spirit

- Claudio Ranieri says the spirit in his Leicester City squad keeps players happy
- City stretched their Premier League lead to five points with a win over Norwich
- Substitute Leo Ulloa netted a late winner
- Foxes boss says points are now more important that performances
Claudio Ranieri says the spirit that exists within his ‘fantastic’ Leicester City dressing has helped him keep every player happy this season.
The success of Ranieri’s Barclays Premier League leaders has been built in part on consistency in team selection this term.
The suspension of defender Danny Simpson forced Ranieri into the first change to his starting 11 in seven games for Saturday’s win over Norwich City – Daniel Amartey coming into the side for his Foxes debut.
And having seen the likes of Andy King, the fit-again Jeffrey Schlupp and match-winner Leonardo Ulloa make big impacts off the substitutes’ bench, the issue of strength in depth – and keeping those players happy – became a theme post-match.
“Everybody is happy because the team is playing well and is top of the league,” Claudio said.
“Everyone would like to play, but it’s not possible. They believe in the project and they believe their teammates are playing well.
“For me it’s important to believe in them because, when I need some changes, they are ready.
“For this reason I’ve said many times we have a fantastic dressing room.”
The Foxes looked set to be frustrated by the Canaries on Saturday, as Alex Neil’s men stuck stubbornly to their game-plan.
Ranieri admitted it was not City’s finest display of the season but was quick to recognise that, at this stage, points are a priority.
“You can’t always play well,” he said. “I’d sign today if we can win 11 matches from tonight without playing well.
“It’s not important now whether we play well or not – it’s important we take points.”