Leicester City’s youth talent production has proved
FLW examines the present Foxes who have the potential to succeed like Ben Chilwell.
The development of young talent at Leicester City has recently shown to be a significant asset in the East Midlands.
The Foxes’ most anticipated recent academy graduates include players like Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Luke Thomas, and £39 million Newcastle United transfer Harvey Barnes.
Ben Chilwell, who made over 100 appearances for his boyhood club before joining Chelsea for £50 million three years ago, is the only player to have risen from within to reap such a staggering payout.
Since then, Leicester supporters have been wondering who will be the next big cab off the ranks from their youth-set up into the first-team before ultimately, and of course, theoretically, netting the club some good cash.
Although Dewsbury-Hall is poised to follow suit, its supporters will continue to demand more, citing Chilwell as a shining example.
So, that said, we’ve decided to analyse the next four players who could replicate the defender’s success at the King Power Stadium and beyond in years to come.
Kasey McAteer
Citing McAteer as Leicester’s best young player currently, excluding their loanees, is not likely to raise too many eyebrows.
He joined Leicester when he was eight years old, and now he is finally fulfilling his sporting ambitions.
The 21-year-old winger spent the previous season out on loan with fourth-tier AFC Wimbledon, but Enzo Maresca gave him a chance, and he has more than paid for it.
Early-season goals against teams like Rotherham United, Southampton, Norwich City, and even Liverpool in the EFL Cup have all clearly demonstrated what McAteer might accomplish in the short- and long-term.
Wanya Marcal
The versatile midfielder, who was a regular in Leicester’s numerous junior teams as he developed, has gained more notoriety this season.
In August, he made his debut during a 2-1 home victory over Cardiff City, giving fans hope for a bright future.
Expect great things from the Portuguese prospect in the future, who is equally at home in midfield as out wide.
Will Alves
Although Alves has only appeared twice for Leicester’s first team in cup games, the Foxes supporters are well aware of him.
Alves has long been one of the most exciting and talented academy players in his age group, captivating observers with his trickery, flair, and terrifying speed off the mark. He joined Leicester at the under-9 level and is reputed to be a fervent follower of the team.
He’s a hugely-captivating prospect, all things considered, and one that Leicester fans are rightly excited about.
Alves has been out of action since last December through injury, but there’s still every chance he’ll come good upon his return.
Sammy Braybrooke
Braybooke is also another name to expect big things from.
Akin to Alves, he too suffered an ACL injury last term but it’s just as likely that he’ll bounce back from it well and continue reaching his potential, which has long been a cause of real excitement in this corner of the country.
Braybooke is a calm and talented central midfielder who has played for Leicester for more than ten years and has captained both the Foxes and even England at the youth level.
He hasn’t had much experience playing senior football, but you can count on him to grasp the moment.
