Bournemouth star Ben Pearson has completed his objective of returning to the Premier League seven years on from leaving Manchester United.
Oldham-born Pearson was a hot prospect in United's academy in the early 2010s and was named the Young Player of the Year for the 2012/13 season. Also highly thought of by England as he captained the Under-18s side, the United fan looked ready to go on and enjoy a long career at Old Trafford.
However, the combative midfielder was never able to break into the first team and after spending 18-months on loan at Barnsley he forced his way out of the club he'd spent the last 12 years at to join Preston North End. He became a fan favourite during his five years at Deepdale but moved to Bournemouth in the summer in order to fulfil his ambition of returning to the top tier.
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The Cherries won automatic promotion from the Championship this season meaning Peason could return to Old Trafford to face United next season. He believes the outcome has vindicated every career choice he has made, including the risk of leaving United.
“It’s a model for any young footballer who may be struggling to play at a Premier League club – just go out, play football and enjoy yourself," he told Bournemouth's official website.
“I’ve always said you probably end up when you belong to end up. I admire players who go and play rather than just sit there and settle for second best.
“When I left United, it probably felt normal at the time, given the fact I’d been on loan for about 18 months. I wasn’t really at the football club when I left.
“It felt like the right decision even though I still had a year left on my contract. I could have stayed but thought it was right for my career at the time.
“I left United nearly seven years ago with the aim of climbing back up the ladder and I’ve managed to do that.”
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