Slavisa Jokanovic would like to say sorry to Claudio Ranieri 16 years after he let the ex-Chelsea boss down – but is not the least bit surprised his former manager is the toast of the Premier League.

The Fulham chief has spoken much about ‘process’ that he believes takes time for things to come together for a successful football manager.

Joka believes the process has finally borne fruit for his old mentor.

Today, Ranieri and his rampant Leicester take on Arsenal in what could go some way to deciding a thrilling Premier League title chase.

Joka remembered what he learned from the maestro after he signed for the Blues in October 2000, even if the Serb’s time at Stamford Bridge was a damp squib by comparison.

“I tried to take what I could from all the coaches I came across and used all I can, and that included Ranieri,” Jokanovic said.

“It’s been a long process for him, and he arrives after 16 years to become the best manager ahead of big names in England.

Joka and Jimmy: Slavisa Jokanovic of Chelsea, standing with Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink (far right), about to be sent-off at Fulham in 2001

“I was his first signing, and he wasn’t so successful with me but Ranieri is a good coach and good man.

“He’s been many years waiting, and sometimes you find these type of things – and this is part of our profession.

“I can speak about process and needing time, but it’s more about results for us right now.”

Jokanovic bought himself time and breathing space to record his first Fulham win at the seventh attempt with a comprehensive 3-1 win over neighbours QPR at Loftus Road.

More of the same would be welcomed by the portion of 2,800 fans in white headed to Blackburn on Tuesday.

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