Leicester City Part Company With Manager Claude Puel

By Max Wise

Leicester City are looking for their fourth permanent manager in 23 months after they decided to sack manager Claude Puel following Saturday’s 4-1 defeat at home to Crystal Palace.

The 57-year-old Frenchman spent 16 months in charge of the Foxes after succeeding Craig Shakespeare as manager on a three-year deal in October 2017, guiding them to a ninth-placed finish in his first season.

Puel’s methods at Leicester City had come under intense scrutiny in recent months that has seen them suffer seven defeats in their last nine games, including an FA Cup exit at the hands of League Two side Newport County.

The former Southampton manager’s decision to drop top scorer Jamie Vardy, who has admitted he is not suited to the manager’s style of play, has also not gone down well with a majority of the Leicester supporters.

A Leicester statement read: "The club would like to thank Claude for his efforts in leading the team during his 16 months in the role and wish him well in his future career.

"Assistant Manager Jacky Bonnevay also departs with the club's best wishes.

"First-team coaches Mike Stowell and Adam Sadler, supported by the club's established backroom staff, will assume responsibility for the senior squad while the club begins the process of appointing a new manager.

"The Board will make no further comment until this process is complete."

Claude Puel leaves Leicester City with the club 12th on the Premier League table, eight points above the relegation zone.

Already, names like Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers and Newcastle boss Rafael Benitez are being linked to take over.

Leicester’s next league game is at the King Power Stadium against Brighton and Hove Albion on Tuesday.