Leicester 'crying' over Kante loss

Leicester City coach Claudio Ranieri has admitted his side were devastated to lose star midfielder N’Golo Kante to Chelsea, but is hopeful his other stars will stay put.

Kante was one of the Foxes’ best performers last season as he provided steel in their midfield, covering lots of ground and cutting out opposition threats.

The midfielder, who was nominated for the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award, made 37 appearances in the Premier League as Leicester lifted the title for the first time.

But despite his fairytale journey with the club, the player agreed a £32-million switch to Chelsea, ignoring an improved contract offer from the Foxes.

Ranieri, however, is positive his side can overcome the loss of the star.

‘Last season we lost Esteban Cambiasso and everybody was crying,’ Ranieri told the media, reports Sky Sports.

‘Now we are crying because we lost Kante. Don’t worry. Football in Leicester will keep going.’Leicester were successful in holding onto sensational forward Jamie Vardy despite interest from Arsenal but now face renewed interest from the Gunners for another of their stars, Riyad Mahrez.

Ranieri has urged the wing to stay put at the club but should the Algerian follow Kante’s lead, it is likely there will be more heartbreak at the King Power Stadium.