Nigel Pearson would celebrate for most people at Leicester if they hold on to win the Premier League

Nigel Pearson expects Leicester City to win the Premier League and will be happy for most people at the club if they do.

Pearson was relieved of his duties at the King Power Stadium last June after being critical of the way the club had dealt with a disciplinary process against his son James, one of three players sacked after an incident on a tour of Thailand.

Claudio Ranieri replaced Pearson and early projections that the Foxes would be one of the favourites for relegation were soon thrown out of the window.

Their decent start to the season extended into taking top spot in the Premier League, a position they still hold by two points with 12 games remaining.

Pearson oversaw their turnaround in form at the end of last season - they won seven of their last nine games - and feels that run is deserving of credit when it comes around to talking about this season's improvement in form.

Asked about Leicester's title chances in an exclusive interview with the Times, Pearson said: "They'll win it. I think they'll win the Premier League.

"Why? Because they won't be distracted by the hype. A lot of people in the game haven't really sussed what Leicester are about.

Jamie Vardy has been one of the main catalysts in Leicester's successes after finishing last season strongly under Pearson

"They've got some really good players. Jamie Vardy's form has been unbelievable - but collectively they are a bloody strong group. They're extremely resilient.

"They coped with the pressure extremely well last year and they are doing the same this year. They won't be interested in what anyone else says. They are concentrating on themselves, playing to their strengths and their identity whereas, to me. a lot of other sides have lost their way. Leicester have no fear, good luck to them.

Claudio Ranieri has spent most of his first season at the King Power Stadium celebrating

Pearson admits there would be 'mixed feelings' if Leicester do go on and win the title, with the bitterness at his departure still clear.

"It would be a mixture of feelings, let's be honest" he added. "I would be delighted for a lot of people there - players, staff and fans - but I would be dishonest if I said I would be happy for everyone there. Of course, I wouldn't be.

"Leicester are where they are because they've had a fantastic season and because their manager has managed skilfully and sensibly, but also because they previously had someone in charge who was able to front it up and make tough decisions when they needed to be made. I know how pivotal the work I did for them to be in the situation they're in now."