Leicester’s Claudio Ranieri on defending Premier League title: ‘We can fight, but we’re underdogs’

While the midlands club and Ranieri are continuing to bask in producing one of the most remarkable feats in sporting history, the Italian admitted his main priority next season will be to preserve their place in the top-flight.

Leicester City's Wes Morgan and manager Claudio Ranieri lift the trophy as they celebrate winning the Premier League. Reuters / Andrew Boyers

Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri has admitted his main priority next season will be to preserve the Premier League champions' place in the top-flight.

The Foxes went from relegation fodder and 5,000-1 rank outsiders at the start of the season to secure the most unlikeliest of title triumphs with two matches to spare earlier this month.

While the midlands club and Ranieri are continuing to bask in producing one of the most remarkable feats in sporting history, the Italian is aware defending their title will be a daunting challenge.

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Chelsea and Manchester City have bolstered their cause by appointing high-profile managers Antonio Conte and Pep Guardiola respectively after disappointing 2015/16 campaigns while Jose Mourinho is close to taking charge at Manchester United.

Ranieri told the Mirror: “Next season will be another fantastic season, because Guardiola arrives, Conte and Jose. It will be a very tough and good season.

“Can we beat them? We can fight, but we’re underdogs. The fairytale happened once and we won. We want to defend our title, of course, but for us it’s very important to stay in the Premier League.

“Our playing won’t change. Yes, we go into it as champions but I want them to continue to have the right attitude and I can accept all the results.”

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