James Justin said he felt like Gareth Bale after the Luton fans applauded his goal for Leicester against them, admitting it was an ‘unbelievable’ reaction from his hometown club.
The full back left the Hatters in the summer in a £6million move, so it was fitting that it was back at Kenilworth Road where he made his long-awaited debut for Leicester in last night’s 4-0 Carabao Cup win.
With the Foxes already in the lead through Demarai Gray, Justin evaded former right back rival Dan Potts to convert a sublime Youri Tielemens ball to mark his first appearance with a goal.
Justin did not celebrate out of respect, but applause rang around Kenilworth Road from the home fans, while others sang “he’s one of our own”.
Asked if he could remember a reaction like it, the 21-year-old said: “I’ve never seen it, to be fair, unless someone’s scored an unbelievable goal like (Gareth) Bale in the semi-finals of the Champions League.”
Asked if his goal made him feel like the Welshman, Justin said: “A bit. Obviously, Sheasie (James Shea) couldn’t stop it, but we won’t talk about that.
“But it was unbelievable to be clapped by the home fans after scoring against them, so I’m just thankful.”
While he said he flicked a mental switch to be able to focus on his game in the blue of Leicester, Justin said: “There was a few breaks in play where I let them (fans) in and it was just nice to hear the fans singing the song. I’m grateful.”
And there was a further love-in after the cup tie when Justin did a lap of appreciation to a rousing send-off.
“I’m not really an emotional guy, so there wasn’t (a tear in my eye), but I definitely felt it,” the Lutonian said.
“It was what I wanted. I didn’t get a chance last season because we were champions, but it’s nice to get the reception and show the fans how grateful I am.
“It was a great reaction from the crowd. I just want to thank them for the last few years and how much they’ve helped us, the team, get to the Championship.”
But Justin is now firmly a Foxes player and he said of his first appearance and victory for Leicester: “It’s obviously a disappointing result for you guys (Luton) but I’m over the moon, personally. It’s a debut that I’ve always wanted, to show everyone what I can do.
“I’m happy to get on the scoresheet and keep a clean sheet. If you look at our team, it’s scary really.”
