Claude Puel has spoken to Moody Blue Riyad Mahrez about his huffy ways

CLAUDE PUEL has spoken to Moody Blue Riyad Mahrez about his huffy ways.

But the Leicester City boss refused to read the riot act to his temperamental winger, who made it clear he was seething at being substituted against West Ham last Friday.

 Mahrez had a strop when he discovered his number was up and he was being replaced by Ben Chilwell with 20 minutes left of his side’s 1-1 draw at the London Stadium.

The clearly aggrieved Algerian took his time leaving the pitch and was seen muttering angrily about the controversial switch.

But Puel says he understands Mahrez’s frustration and says the Foxes’ match-winner will be in his usual place against Spurs tomorrow night - when he expects him to show his silky skills rather than his sulky skills!

Puel said: "We spoke together at a training session and it's not a problem. “He is an important player along with Jamie (Vardy) and it's important he can show his quality.

“Riyad was a little frustrated in the second half without the possibility to touch more balls and to play. "It's a good thing when a player is not happy but now it's important to help him have more consistency again.

“He's a talented player and if he can show his quality game after game then it will be fantastic for him and also the squad. "It's not a problem for me. I'm sure he'll show his quality in the next game and give a good response."

Manchester City last week became the latest club to be linked with Mahrez.

Chelsea, Barcelona and Arsenal have also trailed him in the past two seasons.

From The Sun