has managed after a comfortable 3-0 win over Stoke City
sent them back to the summit, but says it is still too early to
know if they are genuine Premier League contenders .
Leicester's dream season continued at the King Power
Stadium as Danny Drinkwater's first Premier League goal
and second-half strikes from Jamie Vardy and Leonardo
Ulloa ensured all three points.
Ranieri has coached the likes of Atletico Madrid, Chelsea,
Valencia, Roma and Juventus in his long career, but says
few are better than his current charges.
"This is one of the best [sides I have managed at]. Our
strength is our passion," Ranieri told BBC Sport . "We put
everything into it and that is what I love about these players.
"It was a difficult match because Stoke City are a very
difficult team, solid and strong. We wanted to win, and to be
top of the league at the end of January is very important for
us.
"Nobody can believe it. Our fans are dreaming and I want
them to continue to dream. I don't know if we are a
contender at this moment. February is a big month and after
that month I can say something more realistic."
Vardy ended a run of seven games in all competitions
without a goal when he rounded Jack Butland to make it 2-0,
but Ranieri says he has been delighted with the England
striker's contribution even during his barren run.
He added: "I am pleased because I always tell Jamie Vardy
it is not important to score a goal, it is important to press
and when you score, then it is normal. I am very happy with
him."
Drinkwater put Leicester on their way to victory with a well
controlled 20-yard half-volley that found its way home via a
Marc Wilson deflection.
It was the midfielder's first goal since April 2014 and the
former Manchester United trainee reflected on a fine
afternoon.
"It couldn't have gone much better - three points and a goal,"
he said. "The boss' influence has been massive. The gaffer
has helped all the players and brought in some quality.
"The lads will work their socks off for whoever is in charge."
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