The New Generation of The Three Lions

Kenneth was in the stands as Manchester City played West Bromwich Albion. Kenneth was allowed enough time to recuperate following the defeat to Barcelona a few days prior.

He was left out of Manchester City's roster for the match against West Bromwich Albion by Pellegrini. At the end of the game, Manchester City had won 3-0.

Pozo and Kelechi Iheanacho came off the bench to play during the match. With their victory, Manchester City maintained their lead above Chelsea, who defeated Hull City 3-2 as well.

In the other hand, Tottenham upset Leicester in an exciting 4-3 battle, while other London teams, Arsenal managed to defeat Newcastle 2-1.

Manchester United, the team next door to City, defeated rivals Liverpool 2-1 as well.

The victory helped solidify United's path to securing a Champions League spot.

The day following the Premier League game, Kenneth ended up traveling to St. George's Park, England's national training facility, in Joe Hart's vehicle. Kenneth was left with Joe Hart, who appeared ready to talk during the drive, since James Milner had gone in his car earlier.

"So," said Joe Hart, smiling as he looked at Kenneth, "how does it feel to get your first call-up to the national team?"

Kenneth laughed uneasily. "To be honest, I'm both excited and a little anxious. How did it go for you? When you were called up for the first time, how did you feel?

There was a tinge of nostalgia in Joe Hart's smile. Just about the same as you. "In 2008, I was merely waiting for my opportunity while sitting on the bench. I didn't participate in my initial game, though. But in the second half of our second friendly match against Trinidad & Tobago, Capello finally brought me on. "

Kenneth remarked, intrigued, "Must've been something special, playing with that 'golden generation' of England."

Joe let out a low chuckle. "Special... but honestly, kind of tough. Those guys were incredible, no doubt. But the dressing room felt tense. The atmosphere was... well, heavy. Lots of big personalities, and it could get a bit awkward."

Kenneth raised an eyebrow. "Is it better now?"

Joe Hart reassured him with a nod. "Sure. The team is rebuilding, and many new members, including you, are joining. Fortunately, the atmosphere has calmed down. There's no reason for concern."

After hesitating for a while, Kenneth said, "How about Rooney? Is he a capable captain?

Joe Hart softened his face. "He's solid, yes. He makes every effort to unite everyone and mentor the younger men. If you treat him with respect, he will reciprocate. Believe me, you'll be alright."

The scenery passed quickly while they talked, which calmed Kenneth's anxiety and gave him a sense of support from his seasoned buddy.

When Kenneth arrived at St George's Park, he was struck by the size and elegance of England's national football stadium.

Since its opening in 2012, St George's Park, which spans about 330 acres, has served as the home field for all 28 of England's national football teams.

It was more than just a practice area; it was a center of excellence that combined coaching development, sports science, and rehabilitation.

The Sir Bobby Charlton Pitch, a model of the field at Wembley Stadium, served as its focal point and was intended to assist players in acclimating to the size and circumstances of England's home field.

Kenneth marveled at the immaculate facilities as they toured.

One entirely artificial pitch for use in inclement weather and four hybrid grass fields were among the center's dozen outdoor fields.

The grounds were immaculate, including lush green grass, flawless white lines, and unique drainage systems that ensured the fields were playable under all circumstances.

Joe Hart gave Kenneth a tour of the main structure, pointing out the top-tier performance gym where athletes worked out to improve their strength, speed, and endurance.

The hydrotherapy suite, which featured warm-water pools, an underwater treadmill, and cryotherapy chambers for quick recovery, was close by.

Kenneth mentally noted the state-of-the-art rehabilitation centers that were accessible.

The tour went on to the sports science and medical center, where cutting-edge technology tracked each player's biometrics and provided performance-enhancing insights.

Kenneth was particularly intrigued by the sports psychology center's goal of fostering mental toughness, something he was eager to learn more about.

He felt a rush of pride and duty as they walked down a corridor lined with pictures of England's most memorable football moments. He was reminded of the legacy he was entering by the pictures of previous teams and accomplishments.

Joe Hart took a moment to point out the overnight lodgings for players at the residential wing. The accommodations were straightforward but cozy, emphasizing preparation and relaxation.

Joe clarified, "You'll stay here during training camps."

"It's not luxurious, but it has everything you need."

"Everything here feels... complete," Kenneth remarked, clearly still in shock.

"That's the idea," Joe said, grinning.

"This is where you push yourself in every possible way."

Kenneth was ready and motivated to prove himself worthy of the top-notch facilities as they made their way to the training ground.

He would join with others the national teammates later, when England's players assembled to prepare for their match against Lithuania.

Familiar faces like Wayne Rooney, Harry Kane, and Raheem Sterling were among the first to arrive at the lounge. Joe Hart gave Kenneth a reassuring nod as he found a seat.

Gareth Southgate, who was helping Roy Hodgson's team, gave the newcomers a cordial welcome. Before asking each player to disclose their names, roles, and clubs, Hodgson gave a quick introduction. Rooney set the tone in his role as captain.

"Alright, lads, let's break the ice," Rooney said, his Manchester accent softening the mood. "I'm Wayne. I'm the captain here, been around for a while now," he added with a grin, drawing chuckles. "If you need anything, just shout."

The introductions continued around the circle. Harry Kane, fresh off a breakthrough season at Tottenham, spoke next. "I'm Harry… striker, Tottenham," he said modestly, as though still adjusting to being among England's elite.

Kenneth inhaled deeply when his turn came. "My name is Manchester City's Kenneth Lee. Since this is my first visit, I'm just happy to be here," he remarked, grinning.

A few colleagues gave brief welcomes and nodded. Leaning over from his seat nearby, Danny Welbeck said, "Relax, mate, we're all here to improve together."

After the ice was broken, the talks started to flow. Sterling joked with Oxlade-Chamberlain about who was more skilled, and Rooney told humorous stories about training accidents. Joe Hart kept the mood light by cracking a few jokes.

The session began when the coaches finally took over to inform the athletes of the workout regimen. However, Kenneth was already relaxed because he could sense the team's unity. As he looked at his new friends, his fear subsided and was replaced by a strong will to succeed.