Ryan Bertrand says “there is no better place to be” than at Leicester City after watching the club’s astonishing rise from afar. The left-back, who has moved to the King Power Stadium on a free transfer after leaving Southampton, first played against City in 2008 during a loan spell at Norwich from Chelsea. That year, City were relegated to the third tier and to the club’s lowest-ever level. Since then, City “have built something amazing”, Bertrand says, and are now challenging for honours domestically and in Europe. The England international wants to help the club continue on their upward trajectory.
Ryan Bertrand said: “It feels amazing. I’ve had the first day today but I’m looking forward to getting started properly with the lads and I can’t wait. There is no better place to be, to be honest, to be a part of what they’ve built over the years, and to continue that journey. Leicester have built something amazing over the years. Especially since Brendan’s come in. He’s added to that massively, in terms of the mentality. You can see the squad they’ve assembled as well, the professionalism, the standards, the values that everyone shares and buys into. They have one common goal, so it speaks volumes, and hopefully that’ll leave us in good stead. The style of play that Brendan propagates is perfect for my mentality and how I approach the game. It’s one of the main reasons (for joining). I look forward to implementing my style within that and getting more success.”
Bertrand not only brings competition on the left side of defence but also, thanks to his near-500 appearances at senior level, adds experience to a back-line that can no longer call on Wes Morgan and Christian Fuchs. That will be particularly helpful for Luke Thomas, the 20-year-old academy graduate.
Ryan Bertrand said: “I’m sure that sharing my experiences will be one of my roles also. I’m here to share all of that, on and off the field, so I’ll always be open and if I can lend a few words here and there to the developing players, then I’m sure I’ll do that. It’s going to be a team project so I’m here to help.”
Part of his experience comes as a Champions League winner, making his continental debut in the 2012 final for Chelsea against Bayern Munich. He’ll be back in Europe next season.
Ryan Bertrand added: “To play in Europe is a fantastic goal for a professional footballer, so hopefully we can do really well in the competition. I’m really looking forward to participating on all fronts. I’m just really happy to be here. It’s a pleasure to be a part of this fantastic club and I’m just going to give my all and try to do the fans proud.”
