Claudio Ranieri insists that Leicester City won't just make up the numbers in next season's Champions League and believes his side can be a "dangerous" threat to the competition's established clubs.
Leicester were crowned champions in a special coronation ceremony at the King Power Stadium on Saturday night and their victory over Everton leaves them 10 points clear of second placed Tottenham with a game to play.
"I believe when the draw is made for the Champions League a lot of teams will want to play against us because we are in Europe for the first time and they think we are underdogs," Ranieri said.
"We are underdogs but we are dangerous. Underdogs can be dangerous teams.
Because they have finished top of the pile in England's top tier, they are unlikely to meet some of the competition's established clubs until later in the tournament.
"I am confident because this team three years ago won the Championship and the Championship is very tough. They run all the time."
Jamie Vardy continues his search for the Premier League Golden Boot, but faces competition from compatriot Harry Kane. Image: Nigel French / EMPICS Sport
The Italian has spoken about not wanting to introduce a litany of expensive signings to the club for fear of upsetting the natural alchemy that has led to their Premier League success, but admits competing on four fronts next season will be more demanding on his players.
"I hope we can find good players and make some replacements because next season there will be three cups and the Premier League and it will be important to be able to make good changes and give some rest to the players," he said.
"I will ask for the same attitude, the same concentration. We know you can win or lose, but when I see the players play with such spirit I am happy."
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