章 12: Next Step: Starting XI
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Leicester City had made headlines after eliminating their rivals, Stoke City, in the third round of the FA Cup. This victory not only lifted spirits but also marked their entry into the fourth round, where they would face the Premier League giants, Chelsea. The excitement was palpable as the upcoming match was set to be played at the Andy Power Stadium, Leicester's home ground.
The original date for the 27th round of the league, scheduled for January 25, was postponed to February 12, making room for this prestigious cup match. With their recent performance—an impressive winning streak in the league—the Leicester fans were eager to come out in droves to support their team. In just three hours after tickets went on sale, all were sold out except for the 3,000 allocated for away fans. The FA Cup had turned into a lucrative opportunity for lower-league teams to make some much-needed income.
The financial stakes of the tournament were significant. Prize money increased with each round: £36,000 for the first, £54,000 for the second, and £82,000 for the third. Alongside ticket revenues, which were shared after costs, and broadcasting rights, this money was a lifeline for clubs in the Championship. For many teams in lower divisions, the FA Cup could be the difference between financial stability and struggle.
While Premier League teams often viewed cup competitions as a chance to rotate their squads and give young players experience, for Leicester City, the FA Cup was a serious opportunity. Head coach Nigel Pearson made sure that every player understood the importance of this match.
Belvoir Base, Leicester City Training Ground
On a chilly January morning, the bright sun struggled against the cold wind as Leicester City's first-team players gathered for training. The atmosphere was charged with energy and anticipation. Coach Pearson's voice rang out over the pitch.
"Dean!" he called, "dribble less and pass more!"
Dean Hammond, the team's seasoned midfielder, nodded and adjusted his training gear, while Pearson turned his attention to Riyad Mahrez, whose skill on the ball had often dazzled fans. "Riyad, hold the ball on the right and wait for the defender to follow up," Pearson instructed, emphasizing the tactical adjustments they needed for the upcoming match.
"Got it, coach!" Mahrez responded with a grin, adjusting his headband as he prepared for the next drill.
As the training session continued, Tristan stood a little apart, observing the movements of his teammates. With his vibrant green eyes scanning the field, he felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness. The 18-year-old midfielder was determined to impress in this upcoming FA Cup match, especially with the spotlight shining on him.
"Hey, Tristan!" called out Jamie Vardy, jogging over with his characteristic enthusiasm. "You ready to show Chelsea what you're made of?"
Tristan laughed, the tension in his chest easing a bit. "I hope so! Just trying to keep up with all you pros."
Vardy clapped him on the back. "Don't sell yourself short, mate. You've got skills. Just play your game."
Tristan nodded, appreciating Vardy's encouragement. The veteran striker had a way of maAndy everyone feel like they belonged. As the training session continued, the players engaged in a series of drills focused on passing and control, with Tristan increasingly at the center of the action.
"Tristan!" Pearson called, catching his attention. "Get into the top of the penalty area more often and receive the inverted triangle pass."
Tristan sprinted to the designated spot, his heart racing. The coach's trust in him was exhilarating, and he wanted to make the most of it. As he maneuvered into position, he could hear the banter of his teammates around him.
"Watch out, Chelsea! Here comes the next Iniesta!" laughed Vardy, eliciting chuckles from the others.
"Or the next David Beckham!" shouted Andy Andy , grinning. "Just don't forget to pass, Tristan!"
Tristan couldn't help but laugh along, shaking his head at the friendly teasing. His teammates knew how to lighten the mood, but deep down, he understood the seriousness of the match ahead. The FA Cup had a way of creating upsets, and he was determined not to be a mere footnote in the story.
As the whistle blew, signaling the end of the session, Tristan, now drenched in sweat, peeled off the orange vest that marked him as part of the main squad. He grabbed a towel from the physical trainer and wiped his brow, feeling a sense of accomplishment.
"Well done out there, Tristan," Pearson said, waving Andy over to him. The coach placed a firm hand on his shoulder. "You've been improving steadily. Just remember, facing Chelsea is a different beast altogether. We need to control the ball, and that requires movement."
Tristan nodded, absorbing his coach's words. "I'll make sure to stay mobile and ready to receive passes. I won't let you down."
As he spoke, he caught sight of Riyad Mahrez and Vardy engaged in a playful argument about who had scored the best goal in training. The camaraderie among the players was a refreshing distraction.
"Alright, alright! How about we settle this in the match against Chelsea? Winner buys dinner!" Vardy proposed, his competitive spirit shining through.
"Deal! But you're going to need to step up your game," Mahrez shot back, flashing a confident smile.
Tristan watched them, inspired by their drive. He realized that he wanted to contribute to moments like these, where victory not only meant lifting a trophy but also solidifying friendships.
In the lead-up to the match, Tristan immersed himself in video analysis sessions. The tactical briefings were intense, and he learned to read the game like never before. His determination to improve was unwavering, and as Pearson pointed out tactical nuances, Tristan absorbed every detail.
"Keep an eye on their midfield," Pearson advised during one session. "They like to push forward. If you can break their rhythm, we can exploit the spaces they leave behind."
Tristan felt a surge of confidence. He had spent countless hours honing his skills and was starting to see results. His defensive attributes had improved through rigorous training. The drills he'd endured with the physical trainer had not only built his strength but also enhanced his balance.
"Your balance has improved, Tristan," Pearson noted during practice one day, his eyes assessing the young player. "You're beginning to hold your own in challenges. Keep it up."
Tristan's heart soared at the compliment. He felt his hard work paying off, and the numbers reflected his growth: his [Steal] attribute had increased from 40 to 42, while [MarAndy ] improved from 35 to 37. Even his [Physical] attribute, once a weakness, showed promise as he achieved a significant boost.
With all the preparation, the day before the match arrived, and the tension in the air was almost electric.
Gathered in the tactical room, all the first-team players sat in anticipation, waiting for Coach Pearson to announce the starting lineup for the FA Cup match against Chelsea. The mood was a mix of nervous energy and excitement, with each player quietly hoping to hear their name called.
As Pearson looked over the lineup, Tristan felt a knot of anxiety in his stomach. Would he be picked to start? The atmosphere was thick with expectation.
"Alright, lads," Pearson began, his tone serious yet reassuring. "The starting eleven for tomorrow's game are Kasper Schmeichel Jr., Moore, and—"
Tristan held his breath, heart pounding.
"Riyad Mahrez," Pearson continued, "and—Tristan!"
Tristan's heart soared, the joy and relief flooding his system. The moment he had dreamed of had finally arrived. He was in the starting lineup!
His teammates erupted into cheers, clapping him on the back, while a wide grin broke across his face. "Yes! I'm in!" he exclaimed, unable to contain his excitement.
"Don't let it get to your head, mate," Andy joked, but there was genuine pride in his eyes. "Just play your game and have fun out there."
The rest of the substitutes were announced, but Tristan's mind was racing. He could hardly believe it. "I'm really starting," he thought, feeling the weight of the moment settle over him.
"Tristan," Vardy said, leaning in close, "Take it easy during the game, okay."
Tristan nodded, his mind spinning with possibilities. The prospect of playing against a team like Chelsea, even as a young player, was both thrilling and daunting. Yet, as he looked around at his teammates, he felt a sense of belonging he didn't feel in his first life.
As dawn broke the next day, Tristan awoke with a mix of excitement and nerves swirling in his stomach. He felt like he was on the brink of something significant. After his morning routine, he sat at the breakfast table, his eyes scanning the bustling kitchen. Teammates were chatting, sharing jokes, and the air was filled with anticipation.
"Big day ahead, eh?" Mahrez commented, pouring himself a cup of coffee. "You ready for it?"
"More than ever," Tristan replied, trying to sound confident. Inside, however, he was a bundle of nerves.
"Just remember, enjoy the moment," Mahrez added with a reassuring smile. "These are the matches we play for."
"Yeah, and if you score, I expect a shout-out!" Vardy joked, elbowing him playfully.
Tristan chuckled, the lighthearted banter easing some of his tension. "If I score, I'll buy dinner for the entire squad!"
The laughter that erupted around the table filled him with warmth. He realized how important this team was to him, not just as players but as friends.
The bus ride to Andy Power Stadium was filled with a buzz of excitement. The players were dressed in their team suits, looking sharp and ready for battle. As they approached the stadium, the roar of the crowd began to fill the air, and Tristan's heart raced in anticipation.
"Remember to keep calm out there, Tristan," Andy advised, sitting next to him. "You've got this."
Tristan nodded, determined to keep his cool. "Yeah, it's just Chesla, no big trouble."
As they arrived at the stadium, the cheers from the fans hit them like a wave. The atmosphere was electric, a stark contrast to the early morning chill. Fans wearing Leicester colors waved flags and banners, chanting their team's name.
Tristan's heart was swelling with pride. This was it—his chance to shine on one of the biggest stages of his career.
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