Premier League goalkeeper among Europe’s best, says Ranieri

Claudio Ranieri has hailed Leicester ace Kasper Schmeichel among the best goalkeepers in Europe.

Schmeichel was once again in sublime form for the Foxes as Ranieri’s side moved to within one point of guaranteeing themselves a spot in the next round of the Champions League.

The Denmark international, who is now sidelined for a month after breaking his hand in their 0-0 draw against Copenhagen on Wednesday, has made some huge saves for Leicester in Europe this season and Ranieri believes the 29-year-old is as good as any goalkeeper on the continent at the moment.

“I love my players and it’s difficult for me to say no. I always say yes, yes, yes,” ESPN quote Schmeichel as saying. “My players are the best. It was a very good save, if they score they win the match.

“Kasper is fantastic, I have coached a lot of big champions in goal, Kasper is one of those. He has had two perfect seasons.

“Kasper, this is my second year, has always made good performances. I am very calm when Kasper is in goal. He is strong, assured and commands the defensive line. He is a very good goalkeeper.”

Schmeichel’s place in the team came under threat during the summer after Leicester signed Ron-Robert Zieler to provide competition.

However, the former Manchester City goalkeeper has kept his place in the team and has excelled once more, particularly in Europe. In fact, Leicester are one of just two teams in the Champions League group stages that are yet to concede a goal this season.

For more stats on Kasper Schmeichel, click here to visit his WhoScored player page