Leicester City: The Premier League Champions

WriterAlex Johnson

Origins and Early Years:

The origins of Leicester City, often referred to as The Foxes, dates back to 1884. Originally named Leicester Fosse because their first playing ground was next to the Fosse Road, the club joined the Football Association in 1890. They then turned professional in 1891 and entered The Football League two years later (source).

This was not always smooth sailing for them though. In fact, they faced relegation into Division Two only a few seasons after joining. The team bounced between divisions over these early years resulting in uncertainty and financial difficulty.

Noteworthy early players include Arthur Chandler who remains the club's top scorer with 273 goals (source)

Golden Eras and Iconic Moments:

One of Leicester's golden eras came under manager Matt Gillies from 1958-1968 - particularly during his fruitful partnership with assistant Bert Johnson. Together they took Leicester to two FA Cup finals (in '61 & '63), four top six finishes (including a runners-up spot), and winning the League Cup in ’64 (source).

However, nothing compares to their miraculous Premier League win led by Claudio Ranieri in 2016 - defying odds of 5000-1! This season saw incredible performances from key players like Jamie Vardy – who broke records by scoring consecutively for eleven games – Riyad Mahrez, N'Golo Kanté among others.

Arguably one of their most iconic moments is Andrea Bocelli’s serenade before lifting their Premier league trophy at King Power Stadium Here.

Rivals and Derbies:

Leicester City's main rival is Nottingham Forest. The rivalry dates back to 1908 and having contested more than a hundred matches, the atmosphere during these games can be particularly intense (source).

These derby matches are an important part of Leicester’s identity with fans often stating that beating their rivals is as satisfying as winning a trophy.

Stadium and Home Advantage:

The King Power Stadium has been Leicester‘s home since 2002, when they moved from Filbert Street - their original ground for over a century. With a capacity of just over 32,000, it provides an intimate setting that genuinely gives them the advantage of intimidating oppositions (source).

A memorable moment was the last home game against Everton in 2016 where they lifted the Premier League trophy in front of adoring fans.

Fan Culture and Traditions:

Leicester City have loyal supporters who hail from various demographics and locations around the world. Notable fan groups include ‘Union FS’ known for their vocal support through chants such as "Jamie Vardy's Having A Party" which resonated throughout their incredible title-winning season.

The club also annually celebrates 'King Power Day' on December 26th to honor its late chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha source

Top Ten Moments:

  1. Winning the Premier League in 2016
  2. Beating Newcastle United by scoring five goals without reply (1997)
  3. Securing promotion into top division by winning Championship (2014)
  4. Arthur Chandler scoring six goals against Portsmouth (1928)
  5. Winning the League Cup after two replays against Stoke City (1964)
  6. Jamie Vardy setting Premier League record by scoring in 11 consecutive games (2015)
  7. Defeating Liverpool via penalties to win their third League cup (2000)
  8. Steve Walsh’s last minute goal securing promotion into top division (1996)
  9. Dick Neal’s brace defeating Tottenham Hotspurs in FA Cup final (1961).
  10. Andrea Bocelli's serenade before lifting the Premier league trophy at King Power Stadium
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Alex Johnson
Alex Johnson
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Alex Johnson is a dynamic and insightful sports journalist with a deep expertise in Premier League football. His vibrant writing brings a unique perspective to football analysis and reporting.

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