Mahrez recalled for 'must-win' tie

Riyad Mahrez

Nick Mashiter

Leicester boss Claudio Ranieri has called tomorrow's clash with West Ham one his side "have to win" as he prepares to recall Riyad Mahrez.

The Foxes are just three points above the Premier League relegation zone after only one victory in nine games as they prepare to host the Hammers tomorrow.

Last season's shock champions lost 2-0 at home to Everton on St Stephen's Day, their ninth defeat in 18 league matches, having lost just three times on the way to the title in May.

They face fellow strugglers Middlesbrough on Monday and Ranieri emphasized the Foxes need to beat West Ham.

"Yes, we have to turn to 20 points, we (have) 17. We have to win, we have to win, we have to win," he said.

"We are not happy, nobody is happy - the chairman, me, the sporting director, staff, players. We have to react as soon as possible. We have to show all these good things on the pitch. The match against Everton was very even and they scored twice. It's unbelievable but that's football, we have to react, concentrate 100 per cent and fight. When we concentrate we can show a very fantastic performance."

Ranieri also confirmed Mahrez will start after he came on as a second-half substitute against Everton. "I hope he has reacted well," added Ranieri. "He will play the next match and I want to see a reaction - I wait to see a reaction."