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Claudio Ranieri credits Nigel Pearson for Leicester City fast start

Manager Claudio Ranieri has credited predecessor Nigel Pearson with Leicester's stunning early-season form.

The Foxes chief, who replaced Pearson in the summer, reckons he deserves praise for their quick start.

Leicester are joint second in the Premier League after two wins and a draw from their opening three games.

Pearson left in June after a breakdown in relations with the club's board with Ranieri a surprise replacement in July.

And, ahead of Saturday's trip to Bournemouth, the Italian said: "With what we're doing, the benefit is behind me, the former manager, players, the club, everything.

"I am just a little person because what can I do in a month? There was a very good dressing room, there are no crazy men in the dressing room. When everyone works together it's good.

"I know the league is very long and now it's important to continue. Afterwards, all of my 25 players are involved in the team. Sooner or later I will make the changes."

Riyad Mahrez, who has scored four goals in three games this season, will return after being rested in the mid-week League Cup win over Bury while Gokhan Inler is expected to make his full league debut.

Kasper Schmeichel should also return for Mark Schwarzer as the Foxes aim to maintain their unbeaten run.

Leicester have not lost to Bournemouth since 1989 and the Cherries finished ninth in the third tier when Ranieri took Chelsea to second in the top flight in 2004.

But the 63-year-old has warned his troops about underestimating their hosts.

"It's fantastic because nobody thought Bournemouth could achieve the Premier League. That's why football is fantastic. It's a little stadium but full of passion," said the former Chelsea boss.

"They are better organised than us because Eddie [Howe, Bournemouth manager] has worked a long time with them and for me it's just the first month. This is why I say 'beware' because it's a very dangerous match."