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T-RIY TO FORGIVE & FORGET
LEICESTER boss Claude Puel says he has forgiven Riyad Mahrez for going AWOL and wants to draw a line under the forward’s selfimposed exile.
Mahrez did not train for 10 days and missed two of Leicester’s games after being denied a deadline-day move to Premier League leaders Manchester City.
The Foxes turned down a £60million bid from City, stating they valued Mahrez (below) at £95m, which prompted the 26-year-old to down tools after being denied his dream move.
But Mahrez came off the bench in the second half against City to a rapturous response from Leicester fans, with Puel (above) happy to have him back in the fold.
“Sometimes players can make mistakes,” said former Southampton manager Puel. “It was the first time for him. It was a mistake but the most important thing is to look forward.
“The most important thing is we have a fantastic player for the squad, for the club, for the fans. He’s a pleasure to watch.
“It was important that he came back quickly and with a good attitude. It was important for him to come back in that way. The situation was difficult for him and it was difficult for us so it was important to deal with it calmly.
“I hope this squad can keep such a positive attitude – it will help us play good football and win some matches.
“Now we have a very good player for this squad. He is now with his team-mates and all his focus and all of his concentration is on this club and his team-mates
“He has given a good response and he will bring all his qualities to the squad.”