After witnessing his team battle to a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Louis Van Gaal's Manchester United, Claudio Ranieri has highlighted his satisfaction at the result.
Despite the Foxes dropping to second in the Premier League table thanks to Manchester City's early result, the former Chelsea boss stated that he was "very, very happy" whilst conducting his post-match press conference.
'We played well today'
Talking to the assembled media on a chilly evening at the King Power Stadium, the Italian seemed unable to hide his delight at taking a point from the Red Devils. Labelling his team's performance as "amazing", Ranieri did not beat about the bush when describing the game.
The 64 year-old was constantly congratulating his players and even referenced their "very good physical condition" and "good mentality" as prime reasons as to why the Foxes were able to secure the draw against Manchester United.
Nevertheless, the experienced manager also saved praise for the Foxes' opponents on a night that was "not easy", according to Ranieri. Drawing attention to the fact that they are a "great team", he also highlighted that Van Gaal's troops were "very well organised" and "kept possession" extremely well; justifying the former Inter Milan man's positive response towards the result.
On the other hand, there was also a possible sign of disappointment in Ranieri's voice when discussing the draw. Suggesting that the Foxes "wanted to win today", he seemed almost regretful despite the fact his team "played well today".
'Great champions need just one chance'
However, there was only one player who was going to attract that attention of the media and Ranieri. After netting yet again against the Red Devils, Jamie Vardy entered the record books having scored in 11 consecutive Premier League games and his manager couldn't have been happier.
Whilst talking to the media, Ranieri admitted that he wanted to "help" the former Fleetwood Town striker break Ruud Van Nistlerooy's record and that he was "very happy" that it was eventually achieved. Calling Vardy "very smart, very clever and very cool" the arguable Manager of the Season so far made no secret of his admiration for his star striker.