Claude Puel calls for Leicester City fans to show Riyad Mahrez the ‘respect he deserves’ on his return

Mahrez returns to the King Power Stadium for the first time since leaving in the summer in a £60m deal to join Manchester City

Claude Puel insists Riyad Mahrez deserves respect as the winger prepares for his first return to Leicester City.

The Algeria international is likely to feature for Manchester City in the Carabao Cup quarter-final at the King Power Stadium on Tuesday.

He left Leicester for £60m in the summer having missed 10 days of training after failing to force a move to the Etihad Stadium in January.

But despite two transfer requests Puel feels Mahrez – who won the Premier League in 2016 – should get a good reception.

The Foxes boss said: “Riyad deserves respect because he gave his best for the club. The club and his team-mates gave a lot for him too.

“I hope he can come back and remain on the bench and can keep a good feeling with all the people.

“He changed the game and he was incredible. He was an important part of the success with the title. We cannot forget all he gave for the club and to his team-mates. I hope he can have a good welcome.”

Mahrez, the 2016 PFA Player of the Year, has scored seven times in 24 games for City this season.

He netted 42 goals for the Foxes in 179 games during four and a half years at the King Power Stadium.

Mahrez helped Leicester to win the Premier League title before leaving in 2018 (Getty) (Leicester City FC via Getty Imag)

Puel admitted managing his desire to leave was tough but felt the 27-year-old acquitted himself well after returning from his self-imposed absence in February.

“With Riyad, I tried to manage him and it was a difficult period in the winter transfer window when he wanted to leave,” he said.

“It was difficult to manage with the fans, with the club, with his team-mates. But it was important to manage him without him losing his concentration.

“He had until the end of the season when he came back after his absence. He gave his best when he came back with the team and scored important goals.

“He made the difference and he left the club in a positive situation. It was a pleasure to talk with him and share different feelings of football.”

PA