Smith appointed Leicester boss until end of the season

Leicester have confirmed the appointment of Dean Smith as their interim boss until the end of the season.

Smith, 52, has enjoyed spells in charge of Brentford, Aston Villa and Norwich and is now tasked with keeping the Foxes in the Premier League.

He said: “I’m really happy to have the opportunity to lead the team during these final weeks of the season. 

“The challenge in front of us is clear, but it’s one myself and my coaching team have experienced before and, with the quality in this squad and the number of games remaining, it’s very much achievable.

The East Midlands club dismissed Brendan Rodgers earlier this month, leaving Leicester second-bottom and without a win since February.

Craig Shakespeare will join Smith in the dugout after spending six years at the club as both an assistant and manager.

The pair will be thrown into the deep end immediately as they prepare to face Manchester City at the Etihad on Saturday evening.

Smith went on to explain the plan ahead for the Foxes.

He said: “Our first job is to rebuild confidence and instil belief in the team and I’m looking forward to getting to work with the players this week. 

“Saturday will be a big test, but it’s the kind of occasion that reminds us all what it means to be a Premier League club, competing on the biggest stages against the best players in the world. 

“I know we’ll be well supported by our travelling fans. We have to connect with that and give them a performance they can be proud of. We go there positive, looking for points.”