Ranieri only has eyes for Leicester amid Italy links

Mark Scott

Claudio Ranieri: No interest in Italy job

Claudio Ranieri has said he is “proud” to be linked with the soon-to-be-vacant Italy job but wants to stay at Leicester City “for a long time”.

The 64-year-old has guided Leicester to the top of the Premier League and they have a five-point lead ahead of Saturday’s trip to Crystal Palace.

Italy manager Antonio Conte has announced he will leave the national side after Euro 2016 and is expected to become the new boss at Chelsea.

But Ranieri, who signed a three-year deal when he replaced Nigel Pearson last summer, said he has no intention of leaving the King Power Stadium now.

“No team can change my mind. I am very proud if they are thinking about me in Italy and everywhere but this is my club,” said the Italian.

“I want to stay here, if my owner is happy I stay here. There is nothing to change my mind. There are a lot of things to do here. We are just starting to build. If the owner is happy with me, I am happy with him.

“If it’s possible I would like to stay (for) a long time.”

Monday’s 1-0 win over Newcastle ensured the Foxes will go into the international break as league leaders and they need 20 points to mathematically secure the title.