“Maybe I was a better cricketer than footballer” – Ben Chilwell, Leicester City

At the same time that the Premier League enters this campaign’s busy festive period, Leicester City have a run of important matches. While relaxing away from the game, Ben Chilwell gives a fascinating interview:

Taking over from Christian Fuchs as Leicester City’s main left-back was Ben Chilwell’s first move. Cementing that place as his own and giving increasingly improved performances was his next achievement. Then a senior England call-up came, symbolically at the King Power Stadium.

Incidentally, Chilwell also seemingly convinced international boss Gareth Southgate, that the national position is his own too. A whirlwind season, only about half way through, making the Fox a hot commodity among fans and journalists alike.

In a new Guardian interview Chilwell talks about being in the Northamptonshire cricket youth setup:

"“Maybe I was an even better cricketer than a footballer.“I was in the Northants academy set-up and went to Loughborough University for three days for an ECB young England Talents [event]. Then started playing men’s cricket when I was 15.“That’s when I stopped enjoying it. It was long days, 50-over games with men 15 years older who you don’t really have anything in common with, all talking about going to the pub.”"

So, we know what a thrilling sight it is to see the Leicester City academy graduate flying up and down the left-side of the pitch – but he could have been playing silly point off. What a waste that would have been! No offence, cricketers.

The self-confessed second choice bowler, all-rounder, but better batsman said the choice was a real one. Thank the Lord that football prevailed.

In addition to his consistent season, the 21-year-old was named Man of the Match versus Tottenham Hotspur by BBC Leicester Sport. Which was odd, as the usually reliable defender had a somewhat off day for Leicester City. Many fans questioned this call from former-Fox Matt Piper – including Foxes of Leicester – yet the ex-professional is honest in his own personal view.

However, it is correct to analyse, criticise or expect better from certain star players. They should not be lauded unfairly. Wes Morgan, for example, has been heavily critiqued by some – this writer included – but was probably City’s most outstanding player against Spurs. Realism prevails, yet Chilwell is still the Foxes’ Player of the Season; and a fresh Premier League favourite.

Next up for Leicester City, Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday December 15. Claude Puel’s side were a deceptive seven games unbeaten, but the cracks seem to be showing. For Foxes of Leicester, we will bring you the second instalment of Chilwell’s intriguing chat.