Mahrez eager to prove himself again

The PFA Player of the Year said the Gunners showed interest this summer but Leicester pushed back against them, while Mahrez says he did not want to create ‘conflict’ despite being aware of Arsenal’s interest.

His Leicester teammate Jamie Vardy recently revealed his reasons for turning down the chance to join Arsene Wenger’s side in the summer and now Mahrez has explained that he too was a Gunners target.

“There was contact with Arsenal,” Mahrez told Canal Football Club.

“But Leicester wanted to keep me and I was pretty expensive. I did not want to create a conflict when the offer came in.”

The Algerian netted 17 league goals during Leicester’s incredible march to the title last season. He has so far found the target just once in seven Premier League games this term and admits that he must prove his ability all over again.

“Personally, I think it is a good thing I stayed put,” Mahrez added. “It’s now up to me to prove myself again.”

Leicester go to Stamford Bridge on Saturday where they are 9/2 to inflict a third defeat in four league games on Antonio Conte’s Chelsea.

The Blues got back on track last time out at Hull and are 4/7 for victory in the lunchtime kick-off while the draw is 3/1.