Claudio Ranieri: ‘Every match is a final’

Leicester City boss Claudio Ranieri has urged his players to treat their remaining games as ‘finals’ as they try to win the Premier League title.

The Foxes moved five points clear of Tottenham after beating Watford 1-0 on Saturday evening. Spurs had missed the chance to close the gap earlier in the day as they drew 2-2 with north London rivals Arsenal at White Hart Lane.

With the pressure on, Ranieri’s men responded to pick up an away win thanks to a stunning goal from winger Riyad Mahrez. The Algerian scored his 15th league goal of the season to give Leicester some breathing space at the top of the table.

Speaking after the game, former Monaco boss Ranieri urged his players to enjoy the run-in but he was quick to admit they cannot afford to slip up.

Ranieri said: “We are running for something special. Every match in the Premier League is a battle. Five points is nothing.

“The fans dream and we work, which is a good combination,” the Italian added. “I said to my players, ‘every game is a final’.

“We want to continue to fight and now our mind is on Newcastle, which is another tough match at home.”

The Foxes have nine games left before the end of the season, with their next clash coming against struggling Newcastle United on Monday March 14.

Ranieri’s team also face Crystal Palace, Southampton, Sunderland, West Ham United, Swansea, Manchester United and Everton before taking on Chelsea on the final day at Stamford Bridge.