Claude Puel insisted Leicester had enough quality on the pitch to prevent the FA Cup shock at Newport that will raise further question marks over his future at the King Power Stadium.
Puel has faced pressure in recent weeks and though it was eased by impressive festive wins against Chelsea and Manchester City, the 2-1 defeat to Sky Bet League Two minnows will do him no favours.
The Frenchman was roundly jeered by Leicester supporters after the game as he passed them to conduct his post-match media duties.
Padraig Amond's 85th-minute penalty secured Newport's first FA Cup win over top-flight opponents since 1964 and started the inquest into Leicester's latest cup blow.
England internationals Jamie Vardy, Harry Maguire and Ben Chilwell were among those missing as Puel made seven changes from the New Year's Day win at Everton.
"I think we had enough quality on the pitch to qualify," said Puel, who was sharply criticised for naming an under-strength side for the Carabao Cup quarter-final defeat to makeshift Manchester City opponents last month.
"I don't want to look for excuses about this. I think we lost together, we are all together disappointed and frustrated after this game, because it was an objective for us. This competition was important."
Newport knocked out Leeds in the third round last season and then held Tottenham at home before losing a Wembley replay 2-0.
"We had a lot of respect for this team," Puel said. "We knew it was a difficult game with difficult conditions - we knew this context.
"And it was important to have experienced players to manage this game and to find a solution.
"We tried, but it was not enough. I don't know if we deserved it or not.
"They made a fantastic upset, it will be a fantastic memory for them."
