Dean Smith has been appointed interim manager of Leicester City until the end of the 2022-23 season.
Following the dismissal of Brendan Rodgers, Leicester have reportedly been in contact with several managers including Graham Potter, who was recently sacked by Chelsea.
The Foxes remain in contact with Rafa Benitez about taking over next season, but have handed Smith the immediate task of keeping them up heading into the final stretch of the current campaign.
Having previously managed Aston Villa and Norwich City, Smith was pleased to secure a return to the top tier of English football.
“I’m really happy to have the opportunity to lead the team during these final weeks of the season,” the 52-year-old told Leicester’s official website.
“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.
“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.”
Smith could not have asked for a sterner test in his first game as Leicester City boss, but he is looking forward to leading his team out at the Etihad Stadium to face off against defending champions Manchester City on Saturday.
“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,” he added.
“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.”
