Can Demarai Gray become a Leicester City great?
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Complaints and Expectations
The confident young man he is, Gray has sometimes let his passion for the game get the better of him. Letting his disappointment be known on social media is arguably not advisable.
It’s also important to note that it’s understandable to see emotion expressed from a young man.
There’s been reported promises made about game time which were broken by previous managers. Naturally he’s seeking to prove himself. Preferably whilst helping the club achieve its goals after showing has faith in his ability.
What’s the evidence that he can he be great?
His stats aren’t yet on par with Leicester wing legends like a Keith Weller or Riyad Mahrez. Possibly only because he hasn’t had the steady opportunities to accomplish this.
Take Mahrez, in his first season he contributed four goals and 3 assists in 30 appearances. Gray has 9 assists in 31 appearances.
I personally believe the passionate young footballer is a character who’ll thrive on trust from a head coach. Trust in youth, trust of ability and trust he’ll be started in games.
Close Management Necessary?
Does he need an experienced man manager? I’d say yes. Similarly so does Mahrez. We saw Puel take Mahrez aside post game, explaining the reasons for his substitution. This gives match winners like Gray and Mahrez the attention and details their personas seem to crave.
Gray was Man of the Match in Leicester’s win over Everton last sunday. Speaking to media after the game, he said this of the Frenchman and his own performance:
"He said:”Claude Puel) told me to do what I do best. After the game he praised me for my work on and off the ball, which is good for my confidence."
"“I have been waiting a long time so hopefully this could be the start of a run of games for me, because that is what I need for my confidence and to get some momentum to help me develop as player.”"
The Fabled Number 7
To be given the number 7 squad number is a more significant manoeuvre than some may have perceived at first. Legendary players such as George Best, Kenny Dalglish, Ronaldo and Frank Ribery all wore the number seven shirt
At big clubs, the number 7 shirt is usually only given to highly talented players.
Fans and experts alike are renowned for stating there is something special about a club’s number 7 that separates them apart from other teammates.
Wasted Talent Is A Terrible Thing
Speaking after Sunday’s clash against Everton for Sky Sports, ex-Southampton manager Alan Pardew commented on Gray’s potential and consistency:
"“We all thought this kid could be something special and unfortunately he hasn’t really shown the consistency. He has the quality to become a great player.”"
If he can implement then sustain this current high maturity level, he’ll maintain his exceptional start under Puel. Then in my honest opinion – he can be a Leicester City great!
What can Demarai Gray achieve in his career?