Puel: Promising Second Half

- Claude Puel says Udinese’s early goals changed the dynamic of the game
- The Foxes fell two goals behind midway through the first half
- Kelechi Iheanacho pulled one back for City at Wörthersee Stadion
- Puel discussed Wednesday’s clash with Valencia

While the Foxes were edged 2-1 in Klagenfurt on Saturday, they showed plenty of promise late on and halved the deficit thanks to Kelechi Iheanacho’s smart finish.

Puel was able to hand game time to 23 of his travelling stars, including several internationals that have this week returned to the Club.

Speaking to LCFC TV, he said: “We know it’s difficult with all the problems and about the international players coming back.

“We tried to manage this moment. It was a game to manage our game time – 30 minutes for some players, 45 and 60 [minutes] for others to prevent if possible the injury. There is a different level with the international players.

“It was a possibility for different players, like Academy players, to play also. I hope now for the next game, we can put a team that’s more experienced with more maturity.

“I think this game was a shame because the first 30 minutes was not enough with big mistakes with the goals conceded.

“After, especially in the second half, it was a good second half with chances and good play. I think it’s promising for the next but of course the goal conceded at the beginning of the game changed the game – it was not a good thing.”

On the hour mark, Jonny Evans was replaced after picking up a knock, but Puel hopes it is not serious as his side now prepare to face Valencia.

“It will be all the starting players [against Valencia] of course because we will have the possibility to give more game time for international players for example,” he added.

“It will be more experienced players of course, but I hope, for example, about Jonny [Evans’ injury], it’s not too important).”

Tickets for the Valencia game are now on general sale. Click here to find out more.