Leicester refuse to wake up from dream as belief grows

Everton 2 Leicester 3: Leicester manager Claudio Ranieri admits his players are making his job easier as the Foxes’ unexpected title challenge continues to gather momentum.

A 3-2 win at Everton ensured they will be top of the Premier League at Christmas, 12 months on from being rock-bottom and in danger of being relegated. The form of Jamie Vardy, the Premier League’s top scorer with 15, and Riyad Mahrez, whose penalty double at Goodison Park took his tally to 13, have grabbed the headlines but it is the work ethic within the team which has been at the root of Leicester’s success.

“I am very pleased. I have said my team have a very good spirit,” said Ranieri.