CHENNAI: Until a couple of months ago, most football fans would have probably blinked if you mentioned the name Leicester City. But ever since this dark horse team took home the trophy of the English Premier League recently, they’ve earned fans from Thailand to T Nagar. And how...
Chennai’s fans seem to have pledged new loyalties to the players who rose from their ‘underdog’ status with a meteoric stride, beating big names like Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool. “It’s unbelievable, I have watched the English Premier League for many years without any concrete favourite, but what Leicester managed to achieve this season is incredible,” says newfound fan George Oomen.
“I’ve finally pledged my support and loyalty for one team and it’s none other than the champions of this season, Leicester City,” he adds with a broad smile.
For those of you who are thinking that this is a new team, you can’t be more wrong. The Leicester City Football Club is actually 132 years old, and this is their biggest win since it was founded over a century ago.
Though old as the hills in terms of footballing history, it’s the team’s 20-something star players like Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez whom fans can’t get enough of. And while they boast of impressive goal scores, it’s probably their washboard abs that have a part to play — these are the off-field score cards for several fans.
“It’s unbelievable what the final league table looks like. Jamie Vardy was the key and scoring in 12 consecutive matches isn’t a joke, that’s what gave the team momentum,” says student and fangirl Rhea Baid.
Of course there are a few crestfallen Manchester United fans out there, who refuse to give up. Like Jeevan Radhakrishna who admits, “It’s disappointing United didn’t finish top four, but it’s a part of the game.”
Although the youngster is quick to add, “Leicester City were brilliant; every week, they put forward fighting performances and they totally deserved it. I’m glad I was alive to witness such a great sporting story.”