FOOTBALL: Claudio Ranieri's '˜dream died' when Leicester sacked him

The Italian led the Foxes to a shock Premier League title last season but was axed on Thursday with the club a point above the relegation zone.

Leicester have lost their last five league games and are yet to score in the top flight in 2017 ahead of Monday’s visit of Liverpool.

“Yesterday my dream died,” he said.

“After the euphoria of last season and being crowned Premier League champions all I dreamt of was staying with Leicester City, the club I love, for always.

“Sadly this was not to be. I wish to thank my wife Rosanna and all my family for their never ending support during my time at Leicester.”

He also thanked his agents, Steve Kutner and Franco Granello, for “bringing me the opportunity to become a champion”, and added his appreciation f staff members Paolo Benetti and Andrea Azzalin.

“Mostly I have to thank Leicester City Football Club. It was amazing and will live with me forever,”