We are confident we can still avoid drop, insists Soumare
MIDFIELDER SAYS MANAGER SMITH HAS GALVANISED THE TEAM
LEICESTER City midfielder Boubakary Soumare has said the squad still have confidence that they can stay in the Premier League, writes Amie Wilson.
City have lost both of their last two games against Fulham and Liverpool, putting a big dent in their hopes of avoiding relegation this season.
They face a galvanised Newcastle United tonight (8pm) knowing that wins over the Magpies and West Ham at home in their final game would keep them in the top flight.
Since the arrival of Dean Smith, who joined the club on a contract until the end of the season, City have picked up five points in his six games in charge.
Soumare has started the last six games under Smith and has spoken about the impact that the new manager has had.
“Dean Smith has certainly helped with galvanising the team,” he told TalkSPORT.
“He’s given us strength to continue and with more confidence – certainly with his preparation for matches.
“But also, let’s not forget we were all in a fairly tough situation when he arrived.
“So I would say having Dean Smith here has been definitely an opportunity for us.”
Despite the precarious position City find themselves, Soumare has said there is still confidence they can get out of the situation.
He added: “Of course, it’s completely possible with two matches to go, this is football.
“Anything can happen, it’s still within our grasp, so of course there is that feeling amongst the players.”
City they take on West Ham at the King Power Stadium next Sunday to bring the curtain down on a difficult season.
But the Hammers are in Europa Conference League final action just 10 days after the clash, meaning that boss David Moyes could opt to make a number of changes for the match.