GAFFER WANTS TO PIP PAL PEP

BACK AT IT: Enzo Maresca celebrates with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall

ENZO MARESCA is out to nick a long-standing record from under the nose of his big mate Pep Guardiola.

His Leicester side will be crowned Championship title winners with a victory at Preston tonight and in the process write Manchester City out of the history books.

Both clubs have won the second tier a record seven times, with the Foxes set to edge in front as they look to finish their campaign on a high.

Maresca quit as No.2 to Guardiola 10 months ago to venture out on his own – and has proved an instant success.

Leicester’s return to the Premier League was sealed on Friday without kicking a ball as their wobbling promotion rivals Leeds were humbled 4-0 at QPR.

The popular 44-yearold hosted impromptu celebrations into the early hours with his squad at his house on Saturday and is determined to head back to the top flight with some silverware in the locker.

Trophy

The Italian coach said: “There has been time to celebrate this fantastic achievement but we know that we still have work to do.

“We’re all determined to finish the season in first place to make sure we lift the trophy in front of our supporters on the final day.”

Leicester’s joy could yet be tempered after they were charged in March with alleged breaches of Profit and Sustainability Rules.

If found guilty, they could start next season with a points deduction.

North End’s Ireland striker Will Keane is disappointed his team have fallen away from the playoffs.

He said: “It’s a shame, but we’ve definitely given it our all this season.”