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Claudio Ranieri insists Leicester 's “fairytale” can continue this season by progressing in the Champions League.

The Foxes' place in sporting history is assured after winning the Premier League title last season in the face of astonishing 5,000-1 odds.

But last season's champions have toiled domestically so far this term and are 14th – just two points off the drop zone.

A point tomorrow night in Europe at home to Group G whipping boys Club Brugge will see them reach the last 16 of the Champions League.

Boss Ranieri reflected: “It would be a fantastic achievement.

“I remember from the beginning, I said for us it was important to go into the knockout phase – of the Europe League or Champions League.

“We have the chance to go through in the Champions League which is an enormous achievement for the club. Our fairytale continues in this way.

“We did something special last season and this season we are doing something special – for the first time in our lives we are playing in the Champions League and to go through to the knockout stage is fantastic.”

(Image: Action Images via Reuters)

Ranieri hopes securing qualification for the last 16 will enable his men to concentrate on the Premier League and do better domestically.

The Italian insists he will resist the temptation to make major changes despite six defeats already in the top-flight.

The Foxes lost 2-1 at Watford at the weekend and are yet to win a game in advance of playing in the Champions League.

But Ranieri insisted: “I am happy with the spirit and cohesion of the squad.”