SINK OR SWIM FOR PIRANHA TARGET PUEL
CLAUDE PUEL insists Leicester are seeing the benefit of not sacking him – but admits the “piranhas” could soon return.
Foxes boss Puel survived the axe last summer, despite finishing with five defeats in seven games.
The Frenchman (above) described the Premier League as a “piranha club” amid a clamour from unhappy fans for his exit.
Now grumblings are starting to be heard again after successive defeats ahead of West Ham’s visit today.
But Puel, in charge a year, insisted: “I think the club take the right direction.
“Look at the recruitment and the extension of all the contracts since the beginning of the season.
“It is fantastic to keep Harry Maguire, Kasper Schmeichel, Wilfred Ndidi and Ben Chilwell.
“All these young, talented players can continue in the club.
“I think it is the right way and direction to continue to improve.
“We can see the project at the training ground too and it is a good feeling for everyone at the club.
“But you have to have good results in balance to keep the confidence for all people – the fans and our owners.
“With experience it is important to keep calm in all situations against pressure.
“It is important to keep the way and for me it is a good challenge.
“I know there is not a lot of margin for error. But it is important to find a good balance between results and work to build something strong for the club for a long time.”
No top-flight boss has yet been sacked this season but both Puel and his opposite number today, Manuel Pellegrini , have been under pressure.
Ex-Southampton coach Puel added: “It is my third season in Premier League and I think there has been a lot of progress for all the teams about their play and consistency.
“It is not just a quick fix or hit.
“I don’t know if this patience will continue a long time but we will see.”