We Continue Our Journey, Says Puel
- Manager Claude Puel applauded Leicester City’s spirit after they defeated Southampton 6-5 on penalties
- Puel praised goalkeeper Danny Ward for another vital shootout save
- The Welshman denied Manolo Gabbiadini from 12 yards
After 90 minutes of goalless action, the Foxes defeated Mark Hughes’ men 6-5 on penalties, with Danny Ward making a crucial save to turn away Manolo Gabbiadini’s spot kick.
Manchester City are up next for City in the quarter-finals on Tuesday 18 December at King Power Stadium – a fixture Puel says everyone will look forward to following their success in the competition so far.
“It’s tough for the emotions of course but I think it’s a fantastic feeling at the end with a win,” said Puel. “I’m sorry for the opponent because it’s harsh for the opponent, and it would be harsh for us.
“It’s a fantastic feeling of course, all was not perfect because we have some players without the rhythm and game time and they cannot maintain all the same level for the whole game.
“We played this game with good spirit, not all the time the right quality but it was a close game and I think these two teams are close and it’s just details that make the difference.
“Also, the quality of some players, like Danny Ward our goalkeeper. It’s been fantastic and I’m happy also about the penalty from Papy Mendy.
“It’s a good reward for him because he’s had a lot of problems at the beginning here, he came back this season and he’s played full games with quality and intensity.
“It’s a good reward for him and for the team. We can continue this journey because it’s important for our squad, our mentality, our spirit. The players are enjoying the football and they believe in themselves and it’s important to continue now.”
Puel praised stopper Ward after the game, highlighting his heroics in the previous round against Wolverhampton Wanderers as further proof of his talent.
He added: “We have a fantastic goalkeeper for penalties. He made saves, it was the same thing at Wolves. He made the same thing today (Tuesday) with his last penalty.
“He made fantastic saves in the game also.
“It’s a good feeling and I hope we can continue now. We have another tough game at home against Man City. I hope we can have the same feeling at the end, but it will be tough.
“We will see. After this good emotion, we have to recover and think about our important game against Watford on Saturday.”