10 February,2017 08:26 AM IST | | PA Sport
Manager Claudio Ranieri says 3-1 win over Derby County in FAâu00c2u0080u00c2u0088Cup will spark Leicester City's revival in battle to avoid Premier League relegation
London: Leicester boss Claudio Ranieri hopes the FA Cup win over Derby will aide the champions' relegation fight in the Premier League.
A much-changed Leicester team, with Ahmed Musa the only survivor from the 3-0 defeat to Manchester United at the weekend, dug deep on Wednesday night to overcome Championship promotion hopefuls Derby 3-1 after extra time.
Wilfred Ndidi and Demarai Gray scored in the additional half an hour to set up a fifth round trip to Millwall and give Leicester a first taste of success in six matches ahead of Sunday's crucial clash at fellow strugglers Swansea. Ranieri, whose side are a point above the Premier League drop zone, hopes victory over their east midlands rivals will provide a timely boost as Leicester battle to avoid becoming the first champions to be relegated since Manchester City in 1938.
"I hope this match can improve our Premier League season," said the Italian, who on received a vote of confidence and "unwavering support" from the club's Thai owners.
"It is what we needed. We are now focused on Sunday and three goals is good for confidence as our Premier League form is not so good, but we have to stay in the League. This win is good for the players. But we want to do well in all competitions. We want to go forward in the FA Cup. This victory is important," Ranieri added.
