The Road to Wembley

[Drop some powers, leave a comment or review if you want, and enjoy the chapter, trying to hit 350 power stones this week. Also just know this entire chapter was a pain in the ass to write, hell almost 90% of this was written by me, I didn't even use the chinese chapter, didn't even translate it, just deleted that shit. Too much chinese bullshit.] 

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Leicester City had the last laugh in their FA Cup quarterfinal clash, booking a place in the final four. It was a result that raised few eyebrows across England. Facing Leicester City, widely recognized for their electrifying offense in the Championship, Sheffield United, despite their commendable defensive record, simply couldn't mount a meaningful threat. Goals win games, after all, and in that regard, Sheffield had been notably silent for most of the season.

Two days later, the results of the remaining quarterfinals were revealed. The final four teams to contest the 2013-14 FA Cup semi-finals were Arsenal, Hull City, Wigan Athletic, and Leicester City. Two Premier League teams and two Championship underdogs had made it through, and the excitement was palpable.

That weekend, Match of the Day aired a special segment, analyzing the semi-finalists' chances.

[Match of the Day studio, March 2014]

Gary Lineker was seated alongside regular pundits Alan Shearer and Ian Wright. Behind them, a screen displayed the logos of the four FA Cup semi-finalists: Arsenal, Hull City, Wigan Athletic, and Leicester City. The semi-final draw had just concluded, and fans across the country were buzzing.

Gary Lineker: "Well, what a fascinating FA Cup semi-final draw we've had. Two Championship sides in Wigan and Leicester City, up against Premier League heavyweight Arsenal and Hull City. Let's dive straight into it, starting with Arsenal, who, on paper, are the favorites for this year's competition."

The screen transitioned to Arsenal's FA Cup highlights. The Gunners' road to the semi-finals had included wins over Tottenham, Liverpool, and Everton, showcasing a blend of attacking flair and defensive resilience.

Alan Shearer: "Yeah, Arsenal are definitely the strongest team left, no doubt about it. But you have to ask: can they handle the pressure? Nine years without a trophy, and now with injuries piling up, it won't be easy for them."

The screen displayed Arsenal's key players, including Mesut Özil, Olivier Giroud, Santi Cazorla, and Mikel Arteta. Then it cut to Arsenal's shocking 5-1 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield earlier that February, with Raheem Sterling and Daniel Sturridge tearing through their defense.

Ian Wright: "That Liverpool defeat was a real shocker, wasn't it? But even though they've had their ups and downs, Arsenal still have the quality. Özil can unlock any defense, and Giroud's been scoring goals. But like Alan said, it's the pressure. Nine years without silverware — it's starting to weigh on them. The fans are getting restless, and they need this FA Cup."

The next clip showed Olivier Giroud scoring a composed finish against Everton in their 4-1 FA Cup quarter-final win, followed by Lukasz Fabianski making crucial saves to secure the result.

Gary Lineker: "It's interesting, isn't it? Arsenal always seem to be in the mix, but they've stumbled at the final hurdle too many times in recent years. Can they hold their nerve this time around?"

The conversation shifted to Hull City, who had reached the semi-finals for the first time since 1930. Highlights of Hull's FA Cup journey played, featuring Tom Huddlestone, Curtis Davies, and Shane Long in action.

Gary Lineker: "Next, we have Hull City. Steve Bruce's side has been solid in the Premier League this season, sitting comfortably mid-table, and now they're in the FA Cup semi-final. What do you make of their chances, Alan?"

Alan Shearer: "Hull have done really well to get here. Steve Bruce has got them organized, and they've added some real firepower up front with Shane Long and Nikica Jelavić, though Jelavić is cup-tied, which is a blow for them. But they've got a good mix of experience and energy. And with no relegation worries, they can really focus on the cup."

The screen cut to Shane Long scoring a key goal against Brighton in the earlier rounds, followed by Curtis Davies marshaling the defense. A shot of Steve Bruce on the touchline, looking satisfied with his team's progress, filled the screen.

Ian Wright: "Exactly. You've got to love the way Hull have gone about their business. They're not flashy, but they're efficient. And with Huddlestone pulling the strings in midfield and Curtis Davies solid at the back, they've got a real chance to make history."

The next segment focused on Wigan Athletic, last season's FA Cup winners, who had shocked Manchester City once again to book their spot in the semi-finals. Clips of Jordi Gómez and James McArthur battling hard in midfield were shown, followed by Wigan's famous victory at the Etihad Stadium.

Gary Lineker: "What about Wigan then? FA Cup holders and the ultimate underdogs. They've done it once, knocking out City in the final last year, and they've done it again this season. Can they keep the magic going?"

The footage showed James Perch scoring the decisive goal in Wigan's 2-1 upset of Manchester City in the quarter-final, with Uwe Rösler, Wigan's manager, celebrating passionately on the touchline.

Alan Shearer: "It's an incredible story, isn't it? Beating City last year in the final was one thing, but to knock them out again this year — it's unbelievable. They're not having the best of seasons in the Championship, but they seem to come alive in this competition. They'll be tough to beat, no doubt about that."

Ian Wright: "Wigan have nothing to lose. They've got that FA Cup pedigree now, and they know how to pull off a giant-killing. Players like Gómez and McArthur have been excellent, and with Rösler at the helm, they've got a manager who knows how to motivate them in these big games. You can't write them off."

The show returned from a short clip showcasing Leicester City's stunning FA Cup run. The logos of the four semi-finalists—Arsenal, Hull City, Wigan Athletic, and Leicester City—remained on the screen behind Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, and Ian Wright. However, this time, the focus was firmly on one player: Tristan Hale, Leicester City's teenage sensation who had lit up the FA Cup with his remarkable performances.

Gary Lineker: "Now, we can't talk about Leicester City's FA Cup run without mentioning their standout star: 18-year-old Tristan Hale. I know everyone's tired of hearing about him since his debut two months ago, but you can't expect us not to talk about him with the performances he's been giving us."

"He's been nothing short of sensational. Six goals, four assists, and man-of-the-match performances in every single round so far. Alan, this kid is really something special."

The screen flashed to a montage of Tristan Hale's best moments in the FA Cup—so far, his incredible free kick assist to Moore's header and his composed finish against Chelsea leading the team to victory.

Alan Shearer: "Absolutely, Gary. This lad is a real talent. You look at his stats: six goals, four assists, and three match ratings of 9.0, 9.4, and a perfect 10.0—those are numbers you expect from a Premier League superstar, not a teenager in his first FA Cup run. But it's not just the numbers; it's how he plays. He's got that confidence, that swagger on the field, and he never shies away from the big moments."

"I was there in person for Leicester City vs. Chelsea, and my lord, I couldn't believe how much the fans loved him; every time he touched the ball, they would shout and scream. I can't deny it when people say he's got the looks of a model. He's got the complete package to be England's next superstar," Alan stated, laughing.

The highlights continued, showing Tristan's goal against Chelsea in the quarter-final.

Ian Wright: "Look at that composure! He makes it look so easy, but going up against a keeper like Petr Čech at Stamford Bridge? That's big time. Not to mention the assist for Leicester's first goal. He set it up perfectly for Moore with that free kick."

The screen cut to a breakdown of Tristan Hale's FA Cup stats:

6 goals

4 assists

Average game rating: 9.5

Minutes played: 390

1 goal+1 assist vs Chelsea

Key passes per game: 3.8

Dribbles per game: 4.1

Chances created: 12

The numbers highlighted just how influential Tristan had been for Leicester in their run to the semi-finals.

Gary Lineker: "When you look at the numbers, it's clear Hale is dominating every aspect of the game. He's scoring, creating chances, and constantly keeping defenders on their toes. Now, he isn't a dribbler; he's more focused on passing. The skills and vision he possesses are a work of art whenever he sets up an assist for his teammates. Of course, he can dribble, but that's not his main strength."

Alan Shearer: "The thing about him that stands out for me is his decision-making. For such a young player, he knows when to pass, when to shoot, and when to take players on. When you watch him play, you can't help but be drawn in by how graceful and mature he looks on the field; he doesn't look like a kid."

The screen switched to a graphic of Tristan Hale's average heatmap for the FA Cup, showing how he operated all over the pitch, from deep in midfield to the final third.

Ian Wright: "Exactly! And you mentioned his maturity. He plays with such composure. You forget he's still learning the game. He's constantly involved, and he doesn't hide. The way he lifts his teammates' spirits is something you can't teach."

Gary Lineker: "So, with all this in mind, how do you see Leicester City's chances in the semi-finals against Arsenal?"

Alan Shearer: "Leicester have got a real chance. If Hale can replicate his form against the big boys and the rest of the team can stay organized, they could pull off an upset. They have to play without fear, and that's where Hale's confidence will be crucial. He'll be key for them."

Ian Wright: "If he keeps producing like he has been, Arsenal's defense will have to be on high alert. It's a big ask for a young player, but if anyone can handle it, it's number 22 Tristan Hale. This semi-final is going to be a must-watch."

The show transitioned into its next segment, showcasing the stories of fans supporting their teams in the semi-finals. But the focus remained on Leicester City's teenage star, as fans everywhere eagerly anticipated how he would perform at the biggest so far in his budding career. 

The day after Match of the Day aired, the English Football Association conducted the live draw for the semi-finals. Leicester City's players gathered at their captain Wes Morgan's house, the atmosphere electric with anticipation. The team crowded around the television, the glow of the screen reflecting their eager faces, each one yearning to see who they would face next.

Morgan leaned back in his chair, arms crossed, a half-smile tugging at his lips. "Whoever we draw, we'll be ready," he said, his tone calm yet reassuring.

Tristan, seated nearby, felt his pulse quicken, a surge of excitement coursing through him. They had already beaten Chelsea; they had nothing to fear now. As the names were called, tension filled the room like a thick fog.

The first draw came: Arsenal vs. Wigan Athletic. A collective sigh of relief swept through the group, the tension easing slightly. They had dodged the Gunners, at least for now.

Then came Leicester City's fate: Hull City.

A brief silence fell over the room before Morgan shrugged, a grin spreading across his face. "Could've been worse. At least it's not Arsenal."

A chorus of agreement echoed through the room. "Yeah, could've been worse," Vardy chimed in, his usual cheeky grin returning. With a gleam in his eye, he stood up, spreading his arms wide. "But lads, we beat Chelsea! We knocked out one of the top teams in the country. What's Hull? Who's gonna stop us now?"

"Whose going to stop our starboy, too?" Vardy laughed, pointing at Tristan, who raised an eyebrow at the sudden attention. The room erupted into laughter, the sound infectious, lifting Tristan's spirits even higher.

Tristan watched as Vardy's words ignited a fire under the players. Confidence rippled through the room like a wave. Vardy and he had been in sparkling form lately, and as one of the team's souls, his buoyant attitude bolstered everyone's morale.

"Damn right!" Danny Drinkwater boomed, his voice cutting through the chatter. "We're on a roll, boys. We can take them!"

The others joined in, their voices rising in unison. "We can do this!" "Hull won't know what hit them!"

Vardy clenched his fist, his voice growing more intense. "Let's take Hull down and make it to Wembley! One more game and we're in the final, lads! We're making history!"

The room erupted in a cacophony of shouts and cheers, the energy palpable.

As the chanting continued, Tristan couldn't help but smile. He had only been with the first team for a short time but the team atmosphere's been amazing.

When the uproar finally settled, Morgan stood and raised his hand. "Alright, lads. Hull City's our next target. But before that, we've got a tough schedule in the league. The coach wants us to wrap up promotion by the end of March, so we need to stay focused."

The players nodded, the gravity of their task settling in. The fixtures loomed ahead, a relentless schedule that would test their resolve. First, Barnsley away, then Blackpool at home, Blackburn away, Yeovil Town at home, and finally, a critical clash with Burnley, who were sitting second in the table. The matches came thick and fast in the Championship, and Leicester City couldn't afford to take their foot off the gas.

Morgan's voice turned serious. "The coach's plan is simple: win these games, lock up promotion, and then we focus fully on Hull in the FA Cup. We rotate where we need to, but no dropping standards. Got it?"

"Got it!" came the collective reply, their determination palpable.

The matches ahead wouldn't be easy, but with the FA Cup final within touching distance, Leicester's focus was sharper than ever. They knew that each game brought them one step closer to something extraordinary.

As the players began to disperse, Drinkwater clapped Tristan on the back. "You ready, mate? These games are gonna be a grind, but we'll need you at your best."

Tristan nodded, forcing a smirk onto his face despite the pressure. "No pressure, whole team's counting on me, but don't worry, I finish strong. Can't fail now after the end game."

Vardy, still brimming with energy, joined them, flashing a grin. "We're making history this season, lads. Just wait and see. We'll win the FA Cup, believe it."

With that, the team's resolve was set. March would be the month that determined Leicester City's fate, both in the league and in the FA Cup. But with belief, talent, and a bit of swagger, the Foxes were ready for anything.

As Tristan left Morgan's house that evening, he couldn't shake the sense of destiny that enveloped him. He wasn't a failure in life now; he can only look up and praise God for giving him a second chance.

[Not sure why the chinese author made him a atheist in the novel like bruh you literally died, took over another person's body and his entire life like what.] 

The next few weeks would shape his career and Leicester City's future. With a semi-final against Hull and promotion to the Premier League on the horizon, the stage was set for something special.