Leicester City's players are proud to be top of the Championship and proving their critics wrong, says manager Nigel Pearson.
The City boss said the achievement meant a massive amount to his hard-working squad.
Following Tuesday night's 1-0 win at home to Brighton, Pearson said: "I think you can see what it means to us (to be top). We have worked hard to get to the top of the table.
"We have come in for a bit of criticism, mostly from people who haven't seen us play. They see the games we have lost and make assumptions."
The 1-0 victory, courtesy of Andy King's 10th-minute strike and Kasper Schmeichel's penalty save, maintained City's 100 per cent home record, and they have now collected 19 points from a possible 21 in a seven-game unbeaten run.
Pearson believes City, who are top on goal difference, could be even better off.
"I know that we could have won every game we have played this season," he said.
"I am not suggesting that we should be sitting at the top with a full house because football isn't like that, but we have been in every game and we have created chances in every game.
"All in all, we are at the top because the players have worked very hard in games and on the training ground."
City are playing an exciting attacking brand of football, but Pearson said there had been no change in tactical approach.
"Throughout the season, we have created a lot more goalscoring opportunities than we have in the past," he said.
"We are set up a lot more attack-minded, but that is because of the players we have got. There has been no change in philosophy, it is the fact that the blend of players we have now is suited to being more positive."
Pearson has not ruled out adding to his squad, with reports of an unsuccessful bid to sign Stoke striker Kenwyne Jones on loan.
