Recently, the Championship has been a significant showcase of young talent. Superstars like Eberechi Eze, Reece James, and most notably Jude Bellingham came from stints in the league. With dropping to the second tier, the emerging talents of Leicester City have been gifted a chance to break into the first team.
Ben Nelson has been a breath of fresh air for the Midlands-based team. The 19-year-old captained the under-21 squad at just 17 and with such pedigree at youth level, he was bound to make some appearances. Tall frame and good acceleration give him an advantage over his teammates like Jannik Vestergaard.
Very composed, excellent in duels, and prevalent passes are key attributes to the centre-back’s game. This has even led to Enzo Maresca to have full faith in his future leader, with the youngster telling BBC Sport last month:
“In training, day in and day out, he wants me to play the ball forward more and start the attacks and not always take the easier option.
“So if I do make the mistakes, I’ve just got to keep going and that’s what he wants. It’s great to have the manager behind you.
“I’m always looking through the clips from the games that I’ve played for stuff that I can do better, little tweaks, marginal differences that are going to make my performances better.”
A couple of very good performances against Millwall, QPR, and Birmingham City have given him a good reputation heading into next season.
New fan favorite Abdul Fatawu has proved his worth immediately. A tricky winger brought on loan from Sporting Lisbon with so much raw ability. The 20-year-old has bags of pace and flair which has brought fans to love the loanee.
Distinctive traits of the Ghanaian international include qualities of cutting inside and shooting from range. Evidence of this is seen in his goal against Bournemouth and is visible in all of his appearances. Furthermore, his work rate is outstanding; always tracking back and is willing to make a tackle. With little left of his loan spell, fans demand he is signed for next season.
Manchester-born Callum Doyle has been an integral part of Maresca’s system this year. The role of being a full-back in possession but centre-back out of possession was made for the youngster.
He can use all his qualities in this role like his great defensive attributes and the ability to put a cross in the box. In addition, the 20-year-old’s capabilities on and off the ball prove why he is a Manchester City player. After a full season fighting for play-offs with Coventry City, the defender has used his experience well. With only a few months left, one could only wonder whether Maresca and the club will look to extend his tenure.
