Brendan Rodgers believes that finishing inside the Premier League’s top four is still in Leicester City’s hands ahead of their final four games of the season.
The Foxes rescued a late 1-1 draw against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday but as Chelsea beat Crystal Palace beforehand it meant that they slipped down to fourth in the table. As well as this, Manchester United’s superb form has meant that they are only a point behind Leicester in fifth and are piling on the pressure.
Rodgers’ side face struggling Bournemouth on Sunday and he addressed the media on Friday afternoon in his pre-match press conference.
‘The destiny is with us’
Rodgers assessed the Foxes chances of qualifying for the Champions League next season as the season enters its final stages. He said: “Our destiny is about what we do, and my players over the course of 34 games have been great. We’ve managed to amass a number of points which is right up there with four games to go.
“We’re just getting ready for the game. The destiny is with us. We will decide where we finish, and concentration and focus is purely on the game itself.”
‘Games aren’t won by 11 starters’
Substitutions have increased in importance since the league’s restart with five now available to use. The Leicester boss has also spoken about how important his subs have been this season and is pleased with how they perform when called upon.
He said: “It’s critical to have, as games aren’t won by 11 starters. We pride ourselves on being fit, well organised and players having a good attitude even when they aren’t starting.
“Players come in, and in general make an impact and we score goals. It’s something that’s good for our squad, and it shows our mentality.”
‘We have to be organised’
Despite Bournemouth’s dismal form, Rodgers praised the work of the Cherries manager Eddie Howe and remains wary of his sides threat. He said: “It’s a difficult situation. He’s an outstanding manager, for what he’s done and where he’s taken them. But they’ll still be in with a fighting chance, they’ll see there’s enough points to make them safe.
“They’re the highest goal scorers from set pieces. We’ll finalise our plans today and tomorrow. It’s something we have to be mindful of. We have to be organised.”