WASHINGTON - The number of U.S. workers filing new claims for unemployment benefits rose more than expected last week, data showed on Thursday, indicating the labor market remains fragile despite signs of economic revival.

Initial claims for state jobless insurance increased 11,000 to a seasonally adjusted 531,000 in the week ended October 17, the Labor Department said, after declining for two consecutive weeks.

Analysts polled by Reuters had forecast new claims nudging up to 515,000 last week from a previously reported 514,000. (Reporting by Lucia Mutikani; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama)

Unemployment Fall