Leicester City fans have had to wait months for their own LCFC Academy product, Ben Nelson, to be given a chance in the league under latest head coach Marti Cifuentes. However, this was rather odd because the Catalan gaffer had admitted a wish to develop and, ultimately, utilise the amazing prospects coming out of Seagrave (City's training base and youth set-up headquarters).
According to Cifuentes, this is why the seemingly impressive Nelson was sat on the substitute's bench for so much of the current season. In addition to examining and hopefully explaining the former Queens Park Rangers man's thought process, if not advocating for it, we wonder if the up-and-coming centre half will now be a permanent fixture of the East Midlanders' starting side.
Why did Leicester City manager Marti Cifuentes ignore quality seeming Ben Nelson for so long?
Following the final whistle, after Middlesbrough stole a point at King Power Stadium due to low confidence, poor defending and a rooted back-up goalkeeper, Leicester Mercury appraised Nelson's performance.
"Ben Nelson: Very good, to the point where it might be questioned why it’s taken so long to see him in action. Defensively, he was very solid, winning headers and looking composed under pressure. On the ball, he was fine, if unadventurous. 7"Jordan Blackwell
As you can see for yourself, LCFC Live's Jordan Blackwell was just as impressed with the
21-year-old versus Boro. Almost every element that you'd like a centre half to possess was cited.
Although, the reporter did suggest that Nelson's distribution could be more adventurous. But, most importantly for the good of the team as I see the situation, Blackwell ultimately questioned Cifuentes as to why the apparently capable Fox has been sitting unutilised for the campaign.
Though I found a recent quote from the ex-Queens Park Rangers boss which illuminates his thinking somewhat, regardless of whether you agree. The City gaffer divulged what he wanted to see from Nelson before placing his trust in the CB.
First of all, the 43-year-old clarified that Caleb Okoli and Nelson are working hard to be included. The head coach rates the latter, though he demanded improvements:
"It’s the same with Ben [and Okoli]. I’m a big believer in Ben and I want Ben to have minutes and to push to improve, to show he can be there. It’s good that there is this competition."Cifuentes, via Leicester Mercury