Premier League: Leonardo Ulloa backed to handle Leicester pressure

Manager Nigel Pearson has backed in-form striker Leonardo Ulloa to handle the growing expectation at Leicester.

Ulloa has scored five goals so far this season, eclipsing the likes of Wayne Rooney and Alexis Sanchez.

And Pearson is confident his £8million man - a summer signing from Brighton - can handle the spotlight.

"I've not noticed any shift; he's a quiet sort of man and a likeable guy and his outlook hasn't changed," Pearson said, ahead of Saturday's trip to Swansea.

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"He certainly hasn't had any extra pressure put on him from within. My view on strikers is goals are what they are about but the way we play, we need forward-thinking players who also understand how the team functions.

"Leo has settled in very well and has had an outstanding start in terms of goal return. His all-round play has been excellent."

Ulloa might have taken to life in the Premier League, netting against Manchester United and Arsenal, but Pearson knows his side - aiming to end a three-match winless run after a bright start - must ease the burden on the Argentinian forward.

"There's no doubting throughout the season we will have to share the load in terms of goalscoring," the Foxes boss added.

"It's always important to remember we can only be a success within the team if we function correctly.

"Strikers need opportunities and like any other player they come in and out of form. It's the same for all players; they have to play in the knowledge hard work will reignite their form."