England's Greatest

[ Forget to post Friday's chapter like a idiot, I was busy with work slaving away at Amazon, so my bad. Anyway check out the Patreon and hopefully you guys like the chapter.] 

....

The day after winning the championship, on April 20, Tristan was lounging on the sofa at home, casually chatting in the team groupchat, when a system notification suddenly appeared:

[Ding Dong!]

[The Training Acceleration Card time has ended!]

The [Training Acceleration Card], which had been active for the past month, had fulfilled its purpose.

Opening his [Character Panel], Tristan was pleased to see a significant improvement in his attributes. His [Ball Stop] had risen from 69 to 75—an impressive increase of six points!

In addition to the boost in [Ball Stop], other aspects of his [Ball Control] also showed noticeable improvement:

[Dribbling] increased from 62 to 65[Fancy Styles] rose from 43 to 44[Ball Protection] went up from 63 to 65.

Looking at the growth across various attributes, Tristan felt that all his hard work over the past month had paid off. After all, aside from match days, he had dedicated an hour each to practicing ball control and dribbling after every training session.

But that wasn't all. Later that day, more good news came his way. The EFL (English Football League) officially announced the shortlist for the major awards in this season's Championship League. To his delight, Tristan was named as one of the three candidates for the Best Young Player of the Championship.

Even more exciting, Tristan was also nominated for Championship Player of the Season, competing against his teammate Vardy and Burnley's Danny Ings. This made Tristan the only player to be shortlisted for both major awards this season.

And he was just 18 years old and 306 days!

The media, along with the football world at large, widely supported the decision to include Tristan in the player of the season nominations.

After all, Tristan had put up impressive stats: 10 goals and 20 assists in just 19 league appearances this season. His contributions had helped Vardy claim the Championship Golden Boot with 31 goals, surpassing Glenn Murray's 30-goal record from the previous season.

Tristan's numbers across the board were equally outstanding. He led the league in key metrics like chances created, key passes per game, and assists. He even set an incredible record with assists in eight consecutive games in the Championship. His average rating of 8.03 was the highest in the league.

Such explosive performances made Tristan a prime candidate for Player of the Season.

As the early league champions, Leicester City emerged as the biggest winners in the individual award selections. Both Tristan, the midfield dynamo, and top scorer Vardy were nominated for Player of the Season, with two of the three candidates hailing from Leicester City.

Tristan's inclusion in the Best Young Player category seemed almost a foregone conclusion. Fans and media alike unanimously agreed he was the standout young player of the season. With an average rating of 8.03, double-digit goals and assists, and numerous league-leading offensive stats, his talent was undeniable.

Tristan's performance had been extraordinary, and aside from Vardy—who had broken the Championship goal record—no other forward had impressed more than the 18-year-old midfielder. Had it not been for his limited playing time, he might have even locked up the Player of the Season award outright.

After all, many of Vardy's goals had come from Tristan's assists.

As the list of nominees was revealed, media outlets and newspapers began polling their readers on social media. Over 50% of voters believed Tristan was the favorite to win both awards!

It was clear who the fans believed deserved to win.

In addition to his remarkable achievement of being shortlisted for the EFL's Best Young Player and Player of the Season awards, Tristan made another groundbreaking leap: he was also selected as a candidate for the PFA (Professional Footballers' Association) Young Player of the Year!

This prestigious award is voted on by the members of the PFA at the end of each season, and any player aged 23 or under, regardless of nationality, who plays in an English league is eligible.

Tristan's inclusion in this esteemed list was historic. Not only was he the first player from a Championship team to be nominated for this award, but he also found himself up against some of the brightest stars in the Premier League. The other nominees were household names, including Eden Hazard, Luke Shaw, Aaron Ramsey, Raheem Sterling, and Daniel Sturridge—all players from top-tier clubs with strong performances that season.

Unlike the Championship, which had wrapped up early, the Premier League's 2013-14 season was still heating up in late April. Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester City were neck-and-neck for the title, with every game feeling like it could tip the balance. Liverpool's remarkable resurgence, fueled by the stellar performances of their attacking trio—Suarez, Sturridge, and Sterling—had brought hope to the fans for their first Premier League title in years. The "3S" combo had terrorized defenses, scoring over 60 goals between them, while Steven Gerrard, at 34, delivered some of his finest performances, chipping in with both goals and assists.

Given the dominance of Premier League stars, the odds of a Championship player like Tristan winning the PFA Young Player of the Year were slim to none. The Premier League's contenders, like Sturridge, who was second in the scoring charts, and Hazard, were formidable. The race for the Premier League Player of the Season and the PFA Player of the Year was practically settled, with Suarez's 29 goals in 29 appearances almost guaranteeing him the awards.

Yet, despite the stiff competition, being shortlisted for the PFA Young Player of the Year as a player from the Championship was an extraordinary achievement in itself for Tristan. To be mentioned in the same breath as players from the Premier League, especially with such impressive performances that had put his name on the map, was a testament to how exceptional his season had been.

For Tristan, just making it onto that list was a massive compliment. It might have seemed like a long shot for him to win the award, surrounded by Premier League stars, but his performance in the Championship had already surpassed expectations. It was clear that the football world was taking notice of the 18-year-old's talent, and his inclusion in such an elite group marked a new chapter in his young career.

As for the actual ceremony, Tristan knew he wouldn't be attending. The odds of a Championship player winning the award amidst the Premier League's star-studded nominees were slim. But that didn't diminish his pride. For him, being nominated for such an esteemed award was already a crowning achievement, a testament to his hard work, and a clear signal that his future in the game was only just beginning.

Now that moment it was announced he was shortlisted for the PFA Young Player of the Year, the media in England went crazy.

[SCENE: Sky Sports News, April 2014]

The Sky Sports studio buzzed with energy, a vibrant backdrop of bright lights and buzzing screens. A large display behind the desk showcased the nominees for the prestigious PFA Young Player of the Year award. At the heart of the lineup, Tristan Hale's name and image stood out, a young star from the Championship among Premier League giants.

Jim White shifted in his seat, gesturing toward the screen. "It's that time of year again—the race for the PFA Young Player of the Year is heating up. But this season, there's a name turning heads like no other. Tristan Hale—a Championship player, making waves in a way we've rarely, if ever, seen."

The screen transitioned to a highlight reel. Tristan's moments of magic took center stage: a perfectly weighted pass to unlock Chelsea's defense, a mesmerizing dribble past two defenders, and a calm finish under pressure that sent Leicester City fans into euphoria.

Leaning forward, Gary Neville watched the clips intently. "Unreal, isn't it? You watch him and think, 'This can't be an 18-year-old.' The decision-making, the composure—it's like watching a seasoned Premier League player at work."

Jamie Carragher tilted his head slightly, his trademark pen tapping against the desk. "And that FA Cup run—just look at what he's done. Seven goals and five assists, Gary. In the FA Cup alone. He didn't just play his part; he dragged Leicester to the final. Beating Chelsea, no less. That's not something you expect from a kid fresh out of an academy."

The reel cut to Tristan threading an inch-perfect ball to Moore during the Chelsea quarter-final, the stadium erupting. The next clip showed his goal against Chelsea in the semi-final—perfectly placed, leaving the goalkeeper stranded.

Gary exhaled, shaking his head in admiration. "He's got everything: vision, composure, the ability to turn up in big moments. And this isn't just about the FA Cup. Look at his Championship numbers—ten goals, twenty assists, and an average rating of over eight. That's ridiculous. Those are stats you expect from a top Premier League forward, not someone in the Championship."

"Exactly," Jamie agreed, leaning back now. "And then you consider this—he's the first Championship player ever to make this shortlist. That speaks volumes. To even be in the same conversation as Hazard, Sterling, and Sturridge is something else."

The graphic of the nominees appeared: Hazard, Sterling, Shaw, Ramsey, Sturridge, and Hale.

Jim's voice carried the weight of the moment. "Look at the company he's keeping. Hazard, Chelsea's playmaker in a title race. Sterling, electric for Liverpool, forming that trio with Suarez and Sturridge. And yet, here's Tristan Hale, a Championship player, nominated alongside them. And why? Because of what he's done—not just in the league but in a competition that's captured the imagination of fans everywhere."

The conversation flowed effortlessly now, Jamie nodding as he jumped back in. "It's his maturity that gets me. He controls games, dictates the tempo, and creates when his team needs him most. That kind of poise and game intelligence—it's rare. Even rarer in someone so young."

The screen flicked to a close-up of Tristan in action. He weaved through defenders with grace, set up key passes with precision, and battled for possession when it mattered most.

"And this," Jim said with a small smile, "is just the beginning. We're talking about an 18-year-old who's already been shortlisted for EFL Player of the Season and EFL Young Player of the Year. The PFA nomination feels like the cherry on top. This is the birth of a star."

Gary crossed his arms, nodding firmly. "You're absolutely right, Jim. His rise has been nothing short of meteoric. He might not win the award this year, but just being here—being in this conversation—is massive. It's a glimpse of what's coming. Mark my words: he'll be in the Premier League soon, and when he gets there, he's going to light it up."

Jamie's eyes sparkled with a grin. "And don't be surprised if, in a few years, we're talking about him as one of the best in the world. Everything about him says he's ready to take that step."

Jim glanced back at the screen, Tristan's face lingering there. "Well, there you have it—a story that's captured the nation. From the Championship to the FA Cup final and now rubbing shoulders with the Premier League's elite. Tristan Hale—a name we'll all be hearing for years to come."

.....

The next day, Tristan returned to the Belvoir base for training, his mind buzzing with anticipation after receiving an invitation letter from the EFL officials. The prestigious EFL Awards ceremony was scheduled for April 24 in London, but there was a catch—just a day before, Leicester City would be facing Bolton in the 44th round of the league match. Despite already securing the championship title and with Vardy having broken the league's goal record, Pearson decided to field the entire substitute lineup for this game.

Among the substitutes was Pearson's son, James, recently promoted from the youth team, who was making his first-team debut in the second half.

In the end, thanks to a vital goal from Konakat, Leicester triumphed over Bolton away from home.

As the game unfolded, Tristan sat in the VIP area—the perfect vantage point—chatting with Mahrez and soaking in the atmosphere. That evening, he quickly returned to Leicester and headed straight to a suit shop in the city before getting a fresh cut. With just a few days before the awards ceremony, there wasn't time for a custom-made suit, so he opted for a near-perfect fit that could be slightly altered to ensure it suited the occasion.

Once his suit was ready, Tristan went back home for a family meeting, after which he would drive to London with his parents.

Upon hearing that Tristan had been shortlisted for two of the major awards, his agent Mendes called to congratulate him. Despite his busy schedule, Mendes took a moment to express his regret at not being able to attend the ceremony with him. As a top-tier agent managing numerous stars, he was swamped with work. Tristan understood, acknowledging that his current fame and status were not enough for Mendes to prioritize his presence over his other clients.

Leicester was just over 100 kilometers from London, so the family set off at 9 AM, arriving by 11. The weather in London was unusually pleasant for April, with the sun shining and a comfortable temperature. Looking out the car window at the high-rise buildings and luxury cars, Tristan couldn't help but marvel at the bustling metropolis.

As they drove through the city, the family arrived at The Langham Hotel, where the EFL had arranged their stay. The five-star hotel on Regent Street, near Regent's Park, provided an opportunity to indulge in a luxurious meal before they strolled through the park, soaking in its royal atmosphere. But Tristan had no intention of spending too much time at the royal garden. After checking in, the family dropped their luggage and set out to explore the city.

Their first stop was Madame Tussauds, where they admired lifelike wax figures, followed by the Sherlock Holmes Museum, which brought the detective's legendary world to life. They then ventured to Westminster, the beating heart of the ancient empire. At Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey, the trio couldn't help but reflect on the rich history surrounding them. By the afternoon, they returned to the hotel, still buzzing from their whirlwind sightseeing.

At 7 PM, inside their hotel room, Tristan dressed in a sleek black suit. He stood in front of his mother, who carefully adjusted his tie, then stepped back to admire her son. "Alright," she said, tying the final knot, before standing on tiptoe to kiss him gently on the cheek. "Son, I'm so proud of you."

Tristan smiled softly, grateful for his mother's support. "Thank you, Mom."

His father, Ling, dressed similarly in a suit, gave his son an approving thumbs-up. They shared a brief moment of quiet pride before Tristan, dressed in his formal attire, made his way to the awards ceremony.

The grand hall at The Langham Hotel buzzed with excitement as guests filled the venue

Making his way to his exclusive seat, Tristan passed by some familiar faces—rivals and competitors from the season, including Danny Ings and Will Hughes. Both were contenders for the Player of the Season and Best Young Player awards, respectively. Despite their fierce competition on the pitch, the three exchanged friendly words and smiles.

Finally, Tristan reached his seat. Waiting there for him was none other than his Leicester teammate, Jamie Vardy, who stood to greet him with a warm embrace. "Jamie!" Tristan grinned.

"Tristan!" Vardy replied, his voice full of enthusiasm. After a quick hug, Vardy asked, "Hey, when did you get here? I didn't see you earlier."

"I arrived this morning," Tristan replied with a shrug. "Went for a bit of a walk. You know, London's a big city—don't get the chance to come here every day."

The two shared a laugh, and the music began to play, signaling the start of the ceremony.

The host took the microphone, and the EFL Awards officially kicked off. The evening began with the announcement of the best team in League Two, the Best Young Player, and the Best Player, before a series of musical performances by singers and bands invited by the EFL to entertain the crowd. While Tristan didn't recognize the performers, the atmosphere was lively, and the food—prepared by a Michelin three-star chef—was exquisite.

The awards ceremony reached its climax as the host announced, "Let's take a look at the Best XI of the Championship season." A highlight reel began to play on the LED screens. As expected, Leicester City dominated the selections, with six players making the cut: Schmeichel, Morgan, De Wright, Danny Drinkwater, Tristan Hale, and Vardy.

The system chimed in Tristan's mind:

[Ding Dong!]

[Achievement: "Championship Team of the Year" achieved.]

[Achievement evaluation: A]

[Achievement Reward: Two Free Attribute Points]

After the Best XI announcement, it was time to reveal the Best Young Player award. Everyone in the room had already made up their minds—this was Tristan's moment. As soon as the host said, "Tristan Hale," the crowd erupted into applause. The spotlight immediately shifted to him, and the system chimed again:

[Ding Dong!]

[Achievement: "Best Young Player in the Championship" achieved.]

[Achievement evaluation: A]

[Achievement Reward: Two Free Attribute Points]

Tristan stood, smiling in acknowledgment. He gave his parents a warm hug before walking up to the stage. As he accepted the trophy from the award presenter, he addressed the audience:

"I'm incredibly honored to receive this award. It means the world to me. I want to thank my parents, my coaches, my teammates, and the Leicester City fans—without their unwavering support, none of this would have been possible."

With a grateful nod, he returned to his seat, where Vardy was waiting to congratulate him. "Congrats, man," Vardy said, grinning.

Tristan handed the trophy to his mother, who was overwhelmed with emotion. The Best Young Player award had always seemed destined for him, but his eyes were already on the next prize—the Player of the Year award.

He'd received the recognition, the accolades, and the rewards, but in his heart, it was the Player of the Season award that would complete his dream. Whether he won or not, however, Tristan knew his debut season had already been a success.

As the highlight reels of the three Player of the Year contenders played, the anticipation in the room mounted. First came Danny Ings, followed by Jamie Vardy, and finally, Tristan's clips rolled. The suspense in the air was palpable.

The host stepped forward, the envelope containing the winner's name in his hand. The room held its breath as the presenter slowly raised the microphone:

"The winner of this season's Player of the Year is..."

With a dramatic pause and a drumroll in the background, the host finally announced, "Tristan Hale!"

  …