Grounded Rodgers oozing confidence

Manager Brendan Rodgers appeared in a confident mood ahead of the Premier League return – but can the Foxes keep up their momentum? The players and staff have enjoyed a fortnight away from the domestic spotlight although it will be straight back into the action when Burnley visit King Power Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Those not involved with international football have been put through their paces back in the East Midlands but it is generally a time when players try to rest and recover from any niggling injuries.
Leicester have enjoyed a solid start to the season and sit in fourth spot, with 14 points to their name from eight games, and it is no more than they deserve.
Never really outclassed by any team, Rodgers’ men, who have been beaten twice, were unlucky to lose 2-1 to Liverpool before the break, with Reds striker Sadio Mane going down far too easily after contact from Marc Albrighton to win an injury-time penalty at Anfield.
Nevertheless, there remains an air of confidence around the club, personified by Rodgers at Thursday’s press conference.
Never arrogant or overconfident, the Northern Irish tactician looked ahead to the Clarets encounter, and while paying Sean Dyche’s side their due respect, he hinted they have already dealt with greater foes than this weekend’s opponents. “They’re super-organised and they’ve got very good players. We anticipate a tough game,” Rodgers said of Burnley. “We’re at home though and we love being at home. “We’ve played five of the top seven from last season so far and we’re in the top four. We’ve played well and we’ll keep improving.”
A top-10 finish under Claude Puel was the target last term but now a Champions League berth is certainly not out of the question given the talent at Rodgers’ disposal.
There are some in the media who feel the bubble will burst and there will doubtless be tough times ahead, but the signs are good.
Jamie Vardy is back scoring goals and James Maddison has emerged as real midfield superstar.
The boss has defended the young schemer over the recent casino incident, which saw the England hopeful labelled as arrogant by sections of the press.
The former Liverpool boss’ man-management skills have always been one of his strengths and he has been quick to defend the ex-Norwich man, claiming stories about his attitude and mental state are “totally false”.
It is vital for players to have the backing of their manager and in Rodgers it seems Leicester have one that is getting most things right at present, so all at the club can look forward to good times.