Leicester City legend Lineker laments 'worst day in club's history'

The ex-Foxes and England striker spoke for thousands of distraught fans as the club dropped to League One - the old third division.

It is the first time in their proud 124-year history that Leicester City have been in that division.

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Lineker told the Leicester Mercury: "It's the worst day in the club's history. It's a sad day for City fans and I'm very disappointed."

City chairman Milan Mandaric, who missed the match because of family commitments in America, was devastated.

He said: "I am gutted. This is the biggest defeat in my life - not just in football, but in everything I have done."

In the end, City needed to beat promotion-chasing Stoke City to ensure survival as all their nearest rivals were winning.

Despite being roared on by around 2,000 fans who travelled to the game, City could only manage a 0-0 draw.

Southampton, who were one place below City, were saved after beating Sheffield United 3-2.

Another Leicester legend, Steve Walsh, who is now a radio commentator, said he was "totally destroyed" after the result.

He added: "I couldn't face the phone-in for the radio show after the match.

"I'm just absolutely gutted, I feel very down.

"Words can't say what I feel right now.

"It's the worst day ever for City fans and it's not sunk in yet.

"I'm hoping it's the start of a new beginning for Leicester City - I hope we can come out of this and rebuild.

"We have not been good enough this season but I really didn't think this was going to happen, it's a sad, sad day."