Arsenal Link Has Distracted Mahrez

 

Riyad Mahrez has allowed himself to be distracted by speculation surrounding his future, according to Leicester boss Claudio Ranieri. The Algeria international was outstanding last season as he scored 17 goals and added 11 assists on his way to the PFA Player of the Year award.

He failed to shine during Leicester's 4-0 thumping by Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday and Ranieri admitted he is concerned his player's head has been turned by reports linking him with a move to Arsenal.
Ranieri said “Maybe Riyad is distracted a bit by all of these rumours and speculation, but that is also an experience for my players. It is important that he understands that he should stay with us. He has to improve his fitness and play for the team as well as last season.”

Leicester begin the defence of their Premier League title with a trip to Hull City on Saturday August 13 before hosting Arsenal a week later.