Leicester manager Rodgers hails ‘top-class’ Chelsea

Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers described Chelsea as “top class” after his side’s 0-0 draw with the Blues.

Chelsea ended their Premier League campaign with a stalemate at the King Power Stadium, which was enough to seal a third-placed finish.

Rodgers, who previously coached at Chelsea, said: “It was a good game. Both teams were trying to win and play offensive football. They had some chances, we had some chances.

“We played against a top-class team who have been criticised a lot this year. But you only need to see where they finished the season in the top four and into a European final.

“They have some top-class players, but I thought we coped really well with it and we had some good moments in the game as well.”

Meanwhile, Maurizio Sarri was coy on the subjects of Eden Hazard’s future and his own.

There has been speculation surrounding both men, with Hazard continuing to be linked with a move to Real Madrid and Sarri having presided over a troubled first season as Blues head coach.

Sarri believes he has achieved the target set for him, having guided Chelsea to a third-placed finish and a return to the Champions League. They have also reached the final of the Europa League.

Asked if he believes he will still be at the club next season, Sarri said: “I think (so) but I am not sure. I don’t know.

“I can say only that the club asked me (to reach) the Champions League and we reached the target. I can say only this.

“As you know, I love English football. I love the Premier League – it’s fantastic, the level is the best in the world.

“The atmosphere in the stadiums is wonderful. I would like very much to stay here (England).

“The season has been very difficult for us, but in the end we are happy.

“We went in trouble three months ago, were able to react, and in the end we are in third position and reached the target of the club.”

Hazard has a year remaining on his contract and has made no secret of his desire to play for Real.

“Every week I answer in the same way; I don’t know,” Sarri said when asked if he expects Hazard to stay.

“I know that Eden tried to do his best for seven years at Chelsea and he has done very well.

“He has become one of the best two or three players in the world. We have to respect him and his decision.

“I hope of course, like every Chelsea fan, he will be remain with us. But at the moment I don’t know.”

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