Leicester City boss Claude Puel says he isn't frightened of losing Riyad Mahrez.

The Algerian has been linked with an exit this month following a sublime first-half to the season in which he bagged seven Premier League goals.

"I have confidence in Riyad," said Puel. "We have spoken a lot with him about different things but often about football.

"When we have some player they play for the football and a good feeling, it is fantastic.

"When this player is on the pitch they give their best. They don't think about speculation and about bad things. They are enjoying their football and for a manager like me it is fantastic."

He added: "The good ambition for him is to continue this hard work and show his consistency in games, game after game.

"This season he came back to a good level and has played some fantastic games.

"He is clinical with his assists and he scores goals. It is important he continues with this work and he can show everyone what a player he is with his quality and his consistency, with and without ball.

"He makes progress. It is a good thing of course that he continues the whole season with us.

"It is not a question (understand his desire to leave) in our minds. All these noises are just speculation.

"Of course we are in the transfer window and it is normal for the all the best players.

"I am not afraid about this because there is a fantastic spirit and good atmosphere in the squad."