Leicester City's History-Making Debut: Ben Nelson's Premier League Debut

### Leicester City's History-Making Debut: Ben Nelson's Premier League Debut

On June 25, 2017, Ben Nelson made his debut in the Premier League for Leicester City against Crystal Palace. This historic moment not only marked the beginning of Nelson’s professional career but also set the stage for one of the most exciting and memorable seasons in English football history.

#### The Background

Ben Nelson was born on September 4, 1996, in Reading, Berkshire, England. He began his football journey at local clubs such as Reading FC and Brentford, where he honed his skills under experienced coaches. After graduating from Brentford, Nelson signed with Leicester City in January 2017, following a successful loan spell with West Ham United earlier that year.

#### The Match Day

Leicester City played against Crystal Palace at Wembley Stadium, which is home to many iconic moments in Premier League history. The atmosphere was electric, with fans eagerly anticipating Nelson’s debut. The match started with both teams exchanging possession and scoring goals early on, creating a tense atmosphere.

Nelson took to the pitch near the end of the first half, making him the youngest player ever to start a Premier League game. His introduction came during a break in play when the referee needed to consult with the television monitor. Nelson, who had been playing for the club’s academy team, was introduced to the full stadium by manager Claudio Ranieri.

#### Nelson’s First Touch

Nelson made his first touch after the restart, demonstrating his agility and quick thinking. He immediately showed off his pace and dribbling ability, showcasing why Leicester City had chosen him for this historic debut. However, it was not long before Crystal Palace found a way to equalize.

Crystal Palace eventually scored through Harry Kane, putting the game back into their control. Despite losing the game, Nelson’s debut was seen as a significant milestone for the club and its young talent.

#### Impact on Leicester City

The debut of Ben Nelson was not just a personal achievement for the forward; it had far-reaching implications for Leicester City. It signalled the arrival of new energy and excitement in the squad, particularly among younger players like N'Golo Kante and Riyad Mahrez. It also sparked interest from other top clubs, as Nelson was seen as a promising talent who could make a significant impact on the league.

#### Long-Term Implications

Since his debut, Nelson has gone on to become a key player for Leicester City, contributing significantly to the club’s success in the 2018-19 season. He became the club’s leading scorer in the Premier League, finishing the campaign with 19 goals and helping Leicester City reach the Champions League semi-finals.

#### Conclusion

Ben Nelson’s Premier League debut remains a landmark event in Leicester City’s history. It demonstrated the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent and paved the way for future successes. As the club continues to grow and develop, Nelson’s story serves as a reminder of the potential that can emerge from a strong youth system.

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