Leicester City No2 Michael Appleton retains hope of Riyad Mahrez staying.

Appleton hailed Mahrez for his performance in their friendly win over Luton Town.

Despite the uncertainty over his future Mahrez, 26, has continued to impress in pre-season.

After the win at Luton, new Foxes assistant boss Appleton said: “I think he's been first class.

“He's come in, he's got on with it. The players have already mentioned he's worked hard in training.

“He's done his bits in the games, I thought he was outstanding against West Brom.

“What's helped him at Luton, when you come on with 30 minutes to go, the game's a bit stretched, it was ideal for him and he had the opportunity to express himself.

“From my point of view, it's about making sure the players as a group are in a good place and they pretty much are at the minute."