‘Players were not sure what Claude Puel wanted sometimes’ – Papy Mendy

Papy Mendy on the language barrier for Claude Puel, Brendan Rodgers’ techniques, Jamie Vardy swearing in French, losing his place to Youri Tielemans and late Leicester City owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha.

Nampalys, or Papy, Mendy was one of the players who previously received unnecessary criticism while other favourite but underperforming Leicester City players didn’t. In fact he constantly gave his all and was instrumental in the point gained versus Liverpool at Anfield.

Nevertheless, it now appears correct that Youri Tielemans will take his place for the rest of the season at least. Unless the Frenchman gets a chance through injury or suspension to Wilfred Ndidi it is unlikely he’ll start many more in this part of 2019. There’s also Hamza Choudhury lurking and breathing down Mendy’s neck.

However the 26-year-old is definitely a valuable member of the squad and is often thrown on late in matches to tighten up the midfield and secure the point(s) safely. Vowing to persevere in the side, he spoke to L’Equipe

Understandably Mendy is disappointed not to be starting of late. Yet he spoke eloquently and selflessly on the matter, expressing his want for the best possible situation for Leicester City. In addition he promised to be “on guard” for his place – meaning he’ll do his utmost in training to break in again. Comment comes via Leicester Mercury.

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Puel Vs Rodgers at Leicester City

During his recent interview, the former AS Monaco player spoke about the difference between Claude Puel and Brendan Rodgers:

"“The coach (Puel) spoke good English but some players were sometimes not sure what he wanted.“(Rodgers) is a British coach, the communication is clearer for the team, who react better.“Everything is much more detailed, it is easier for the group to understand his way of thinking.”– Via L’Equipe"

It’s very interesting indeed to read that there is more detail comparatively in the Northern Irishman’s preparation and training methods than his French predecessor. The 56-year-old appeared to be meticulous; he just often got it wrong.

This fact is another aspect Puel’s haters can throw at his legacy. To be honest, this writer thinks the former City boss tried to do many things that didn’t materialise. Rodgers will now most likely implement these factors successfully at the King Power Stadium.

Another fascinating part of the ex-Nice man’s talk was his fondness in recollection of the former Leicester City chairman, the late Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha. Most noteworthy was Mendy saying the “cool” owner didn’t take himself too seriously and was the most generous of men, also that the team were the Thai’s “family”.

Leicester beat Burnley with 10-men on Saturday, as Harry Maguire saw red after only three minutes – hence the Tweet.

Ooh la la Jamie Var

A most hilarious moment arose from the chat Mendy had with the French outlet, as he divulged that Jamie Vardy keeps spirits of the French contingent up by using expletives in their native tongue. Brilliant from the cheeky Englishman once again. You can read more at LCFC Live.

Bournemouth travel to the East Midlands next to face the Foxes on March 30.