Ranieri has unwavering support of Leicester

Claudio Ranieri has the 'unwavering support' of Leicester, the club has announced.

Ranieri's position has come under scrutiny in recent weeks as Leicester have slipped down the table to leave them in the middle of a relegation battle.

Just months after being crowned Premier League champions, the club are just one point above the relegation zone after failing to record a win since their FA Cup third-round defeat of Everton, leading to suggestions that Ranieri could be heading for the exit door.

A number of players have dismissed reports of dressing room unrest and now the club have come out to offer their full support for the Italian.

"In light of recent speculation Leicester City Football Club would like to make absolutely clear its unwavering support for its first team manager Claudio Ranieri," a club statement read.

"While there is a collective appreciation from everyone at the club that recent form needs to improve, the unprecedented success achieved in recent seasons has been based firmly on stability, togetherness and determination to overcome even the greatest of challenges.

"The entire club is, and will remain, united behind its manager and behind its players, collectively and firmly focused on the challenges ahead."

Ranieri faced the media on Tuesday ahead of his side's FA Cup fourth-round replay against Derby and he was rubbished suggestions that he has lost the dressing room.

"I think [the statement] is for the media. I know the views of the chairman. Maybe he wanted to stop all the speculation. I didn't ask them to do this - I knew what the chairman was thinking" Ranieri told reporters.

"I understand football. You have to do your job and I have to do my job. When you win three matches you are 'God', when you lose three you are not.

"This is not a crisis. When you aren't winning you lose confidence, it is normal."

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