Almost safe, but Shakespeare still frets for his Foxes

WEST BROMWICH - Craig Shakespeare insisted Leicester City's relegation fight is not over, despite the champion looking safe from the drop after Saturday's 1-0 victory at West Bromwich Albion.

Jamie Vardy's 43rd-minute goal secured victory for the Foxes to take them to 40 points - considered a benchmark tally for Premier League survival - with four games left to play.

Leicester's top-flight status seemed in danger when title-winning boss Claudio Ranieri was fired in February with the club in freefall.

The Italian was replaced by his assistant Shakespeare, but despite an impressive run of results under the Englishman's guidance, Leicester's Thai owners have yet to confirm if they will retain the 53-year-old next term.

Meanwhile, the Foxes' apparent savior is taking nothing for granted.

"We are not mathematically safe," said Shakespeare, who served West Brom as a player and a coach.

"We are delighted to have three points and this is a giant step toward that aim. But even if we had got there, we have a duty to perform in every game.

"It was a scrappy game and it felt like that. I felt the first goal was going to be important today."

As for his Hawthorns return, Shakespeare said: "It is nice to come back. I am pleased with the warm reception I got."

However, he added: "It's about the result. I wouldn't like to leave with my tail between my legs after we lost 3-0."

England striker Vardy bagged his 10th goal in 15 matches for club and country when he was teed up by Japan international Shinji Okazaki.

"Shinji weighted the pass terrifically," said Shakespeare.

"Vardy is in a purple patch but he has got to thank the other players for the service.

"His attributes are being quick and playing on the shoulder of defenders.

"I want Jamie Vardy to finish on a high. He's scored quite a few of late and I want that to continue.

"It will be a difficult end to the season and we have to try and win every game."

Elsewhere, Sunderland, managed by former Manchester United boss David Moyes, were relegated on Saturday after a 1-0 loss at home to Bournemouth.

Agence France-Presse

(China Daily 05/01/2017 page12)