ON SHAKEY GROUND
Foxes players say they’ve done everything to get Craig the job.. but they won’t tinker with hunt for any new manager
LEICESTER players have pledged to “respect” whatever decision the club makes about Craig Shakespeare as fears grow he may not remain in charge.
Shakespeare transformed a struggling side when he stepped up to be caretaker boss after Claudio Ranieri was sacked in February amid growing worries of a relegation fight for a team that lifted the title last season. The Foxes won seven of their 13 league games under him to finish 12th and he guided them into the Champions League quarter-finals. But Shakespeare admitted after the final-day home draw with Bournemouth that he is in the dark over his future. The players have also heard nothing from Thai owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha (below), who axed both Ranieri – following dressing-room unrest over his tinkering – and Nigel Pearson despite success. But right-back Danny Simpson, who made 43 appearances this term, insists the players will not meddle. He said: “It’s up to the chairman and, once the decision has been made, as players we’ll respect it. “We’ve done what we can since Craig took over – perform, stay in the league and finish as high as we can. He’s a top man, I’ve a lot of respect for him. “Considering the position 13 games ago we’ve looked good and got a lot of points. We’ve performed well and tried and that’s all Craig wanted us to do when he took over. “We’ll reflect on this season and when the decisions are made we’ll take it from there.” Shakespeare’s contract is due to revert to being an assistant. He had hoped to be manager next season, but failing to win any of his last three games, including a 6-1 home thrashing by Tottenham, could cost him. Srivaddhanaprabha said: “We asked Craig to take charge until the end of the season and agreed we would discuss the situation then. There are many things to consider and to talk about – both for the club and for Craig himself – but it’s only right we have those conversations with Craig before discussing the situation publicly.” He did praise Shakespeare, adding: “In difficult circumstances he has united the people.” But questions over who will be manager have added to the uncertainty at a time when rival clubs are eyeing Kasper Schmeichel, Wes Morgan, Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez.