Crystal Palace pile pressure on Leicester manger Pearson
Reports emerged yesterday that the Foxes, who are rooted to the foot of the table, had parted company with their manager.
The rumours emerged 24 hours after Pearson was involved in a bizarre incident in Saturday’s 1-0 home defeat by Crystal Palace.
He was knocked over on the touchline by Palace midfielder James McArthur after a tackle by Marc Albrighton, resulting in what was initially a friendly exchange between the Foxes boss and Scottish player. Pearson even playfully grabbed McArthur around the throat before helping him to his feet, only to then prevent him from returning to the pitch by grabbing hold of his shirt.”
Former Leicester striker Gary Lineker, now host of BBC’s Match of the Day, wrote on Twitter: “Not sure if yesterday’s bizarre touchline behaviour had anything to do with Pearson’s exit, but certainly shows how the job gets to ’em all.”
However, reports of Pearson demise were exaggerated as Leicester issued a statement insisting he remains their boss. The statement read: “Leicester City Football Club would like to clarify its position relative to its manager, Nigel Pearson.
“Contrary to media speculation on Sunday evening, Nigel remains the club’s first team manager. Reports to the contrary are inaccurate and without foundation.
“Nigel, his staff and the first team squad are entirely focused on Tuesday night’s trip to Arsenal and our continued efforts to secure our position in the Barclays Premier League.”
Joe Ledley scored Palace’s winner on Saturday.
LEICESTER: Schwarzer, Simpson (Vardy 79), Wasilewski, Morgan, Konchesky, Mahrez, Cambiasso, James, Schlupp (Albrighton 66), Nugent (Kramaric 71), Ulloa.
CRYSTAL PALACE: Speroni, Ward, Dann (Hangeland 46), Delaney, Kelly, McArthur, Ledley, Puncheon, Mutch (Sanogo 46), Zaha, Gayle (Guedioura 78).
Referee: Lee Mason.
