Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers said his side must "embrace the challenge" of what looks a daunting climax to its season after a 4-2 home drubbing by Newcastle United in the Premier League on Friday.
His side's eighth home league defeat put a dent in its hopes of a top-four finish, leaving it in third spot in the standings with 63 points, two above Chelsea and five above fifth-placed West Ham United, both of which has a game in hand.
Leicester's last three league games is against Manchester United, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur. It also has an FA Cup final to prepare for against Chelsea.
"We have made it a lot harder for ourselves but it is still in our hands. We have to fight and we are a group that is together," said Rodgers, whose side let slip a top-four place at the death last season.
"We have already beaten our total from last season. We have to embrace the challenge. We have three exciting games left plus a cup final and we are excited for the challenge," he added.
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Leicester's night had got off to a bad start when defender Jonny Evans was injured in the warmup.
"Jonny Evans is the brain of our backline and when he came out of the team that was a big blow for us. However, we should still defend better," Rodgers said.
"I will give credit to the players because they kept fighting and kept running to the end. Tonight it was just too many mistakes," he added.
Newcastle almost there
While Leicester faces an anxious climax to the season, Newcastle boss Steve Bruce's players can breathe easier after moving 12 points clear of Fulham and now look 99% certain of staying in the top flight.
"Absolutely pleasing, especially the first half. Some of the counter attacking was excellent, delighted with the win," Bruce said.
"We made it a bit hairy towards the end. We are not safe, for the Premier League you can't take it for granted. We are almost there. Until it is done, we have to get ready for the next challenge," he added.
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