Marti Cifuentes was swift to commend the admirable efforts of Sheffield Wednesday despite securing his inaugural victory as Leicester City manager.
The Foxes rallied from behind to defeat Wednesday, with Wout Faes’ 87th-minute decisive goal ensuring a triumphant debut for Cifuentes.
Nathaniel Chalobah’s first-half strike for the Owls prompted jeers from the Leicester supporters at halftime, only for Jannik Vestergaard and Faes to turn the tide.
Harry Winks shone for the hosts, but even Cifuentes believed one Wednesday player merited special recognition.
Marti Cifuentes highlights Sheffield Wednesday goalkeeper:
Were it not for Pierce Charles, the outcome could have been markedly different for the Owls.
Charles, reportedly admired by Leicester, executed 11 saves in total, and the Foxes boss deemed him the standout performer on the pitch, surpassing Winks.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, the Catalonian said: “Winks is a strong player and he did really well for the team.
“In my opinion, their goalkeeper was the best player and that shows that maybe we could have scored more goals.”
Observed by his brother Shea from the away section, it was another occasion Charles can reflect on with pride.
Leicester City finally displayed some resilience:
Had that match occurred last season, the Foxes would have capitulated and been thoroughly outplayed.
A lack of tenacity was evident throughout the season as they were demoted from the Premier League without resistance.
This time, however, when faced with adversity, they battled back and clinched a vital victory.
Admittedly, it was only the opening match day, but with some prominent teams already losing points, gaining an early advantage is always critical.