Simpson: We will pull together

Danny Simpson admits Leicester have found this season harder than expected.

The Premier League champions have won just five games this season and they are just a point above the relegation zone following Sunday's 3-0 defeat to Manchester United.

The loss was their fourth straight defeat in the league and there have been reports of major dressing-room unrest as their title defence continues to flounder.

Simpson expected Leicester to find it tougher this year but he admits their struggles have been a shock to the system, but he insists the players are fully behind manager Claudio Ranieri.

"Because of our situation, that is the papers trying to stir the pot. Look at the performance (on Sunday). Up until 42 minutes we were solid, we were good, everyone was fighting. You can see from the performance on the pitch the lads are trying, and that is that," Simpson explained.

"We knew it wasn't going to be like last season but it is tougher than we thought. The good thing is we have been here (in a relegation fight) before, we have been here two years ago.

"The majority of the squad were here two years ago. In that respect we have experience in that. The players who were here then can help some of the other lads through, and we will pull together."

Leicester host Derby in the FA Cup fourth round replay on Wednesday before facing fellow strugglers Swansea in the Premier League on Sunday.

Only goal difference separates them from Paul Clement's side and Simpson believes a win over Derby would give them the confidence they need ahead of Sunday's crunch tie.

"Sunday is big, I get that, but I want to play Wednesday - we need a win. I know it is not the league but we need a win. Maybe Wednesday can help with our confidence. It is a big game," Simpson reasoned.

"I don't think you should write it off because of what is going on in the league. United are a good team, but maybe Wednesday is what we need at home against Derby to kick us on."

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