Puel criticices Mahrez's decision to go AWOL

Cape Town - Leicester City manager Claude Puel believes Riyad Mahrez made a mistake when he decided to go AWOL after his desired move to Manchester City didn't materialise.

Pep Guardiola's team came in for the Algerian with a £60 million bid, which led to Mahrez handing in a transfer request on the penultimate day of the January transfer window as he aimed to force the move.

However, the Foxes rejected the bid to the disappointment of Mahrez, who went absent for two Premier League games, before making his return against Manchester City in the 5-1 defeat at the weekend.

"I think since the beginning of the situation it was tough to manage, but all the time we kept united about this situation and about Riyad," Puel was quoted by the Leicester Mercury.

"That was the most important thing. Sometimes some players can make a mistake. It was the first time for him and it was a mistake but the most important thing is to look forward and put it right.

"He is fantastic player for us, his team-mates and the fans. It is a pleasure to watch him... It is important we continue together."