Okazaki Pleased With City Strength

- Shinji Okazaki says Leicester City were unfortunate not to defeat AFC Bournemouth on Sunday
- The Japanese striker believes the Foxes performed well at King Power Stadium on the final day
- City were 'strong' in the hope of giving defender Marcin Wasilewski a fitting finale, says Okazaki
- The 31-year-old forward insists Leicester can take pride from their improved form in past months

While Leicester City were disappointed not to score a winner against AFC Bournemouth on Sunday, Shinji Okazaki says the Foxes can take pride from their late season form.

City were positioned in the lower region of the Premier League table back in February but eight victories in 15 matches propelled them back into the safety of mid-table. Okazaki, an unused substitute, said he was pleased to see Leicester show an attacking threat at the weekend.

“We started bad but, in the second half, it was very good,” he told LCFC TV. "Maybe we could have won 2-1. We played our football and we are happy with the performance but a little disappointed not to win.”

The final day clash with Eddie Howe’s men was also Marcin Wasilewski’s last match with the Club after four years of service by the Polish centre-back at King Power Stadium.

“We played very well and, especially because it was Wasilewski’s last game, we were strong,” Okazaki added.

“I respect him because he is a professional. He trains hard every day.”

Reflecting on the 2016/17 season in its entirety, the Japanese international says there is much to be proud of, not least City's run into the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League, where they ultimately suffered a slender aggregate defeat by Atlético Madrid.

“The Champions League was our dream and we got through to the last eight which is special. This is Leicester’s football. Everyone saw this game in the Champions League.

"We are tired now because, three months ago, we were struggling so the atmosphere wasn’t good.

"We stayed together and it was a good end to the season.”