Claudio Ranieri reveals he dislikes playing on a Monday night... as Leicester's charge for Premier League title continues

Claudio Ranieri has maintained a jovial and genial approach during Leicester’s rise to the top of the Premier League but he has finally revealed a subject he dislikes: playing on Monday nights.

The Leicester manager does not enjoy the weekend wait for a game and would prefer to get points on the board earlier each round of fixtures to press home his side’s lead over the chasing pack.

Ranieri welcomes Rafa Benitez back to England tonight and will hope Newcastle receive no bounce from the appointment of a new manager.

Claudio Ranieri says that he dislikes Leicester having to play on Monday nights because of needless waiting

Ranieri's Leicester are currently two points clear of Tottenham at the top of the Premier League table

Despite his personal feelings, Leicester won their only other match on a Monday night this season, beating Chelsea 2-1.

‘I don’t like so much to play Monday night but that is the rule and I can’t change it,’ said Ranieri.

‘I don’t like it, is strange. Friday, Saturday, Sunday yes, Monday is too long a wait.’

The last time Leicester played on a Monday night was the 2-1 victory over Chelsea in December last year

Having overcome his dislike for the start of the week, Ranieri has warned his players to beware the relegation strugglers.

‘It is a difficult match because they are in a dangerous position,’ said Ranieri.

‘I can’t believe why because there are so many good players and they spend more than £100million.

‘The three points against Newcastle are very important for us. My focus is on Newcastle, my study is on Newcastle, my obsession is Newcastle.

Leicester are two points clear of Spurs in second

‘When we played there, there were so many good players. Sometimes they play well and sometimes they re down. I can’t understand but I am sure on Monday night it will be a battle and it is important we understand this.

‘I want to see my players fight for every ball.’

The smile has not left Ranieri’s face this season and he admits he is yet to lose his temper.

‘it is unusual,’ he admitted. ‘I am very clear in my face. If I am angry you see me very angry.’