U's boss sees Ben Nelson playing in the Premier League next season
GARY Rowett believes Ben Nelson will be playing Premier League football next season if not for the Leicester City first team.
The 21-year-old centre back has caught the eye with his assured defending and quality in possession while on loan at Oxford United.
Nelson opened the scoring as the U's sealed Sky Bet Championship survival with a 2-0 win at home against Sunderland, directing a towering header past Anthony Patterson in the Black Cats goal.
His centre half partner Michal Helik then doubled the lead on a memorable afternoon at the Kassam Stadium.
READ ALSO: What have been the key ingredients in U's securing safety?
Nelson could well come up against United next season, with his parent club relegated from the Premier League, but Rowett is of the opinion that Nelson might make a top flight move himself.
Rowett said: 'I thought Ben and Mich stepped up with the goals, but I would say I thought Ben Nelson in particular was absolutely outstanding.
'He showed the potential which he's got, which is to be a Premier League centre half.
'I'd love to turn round and say we might be able to have a chance of keeping him, but I think the reality is he's going to go to a bigger club.
'He's probably going to end up playing for Leicester's team if he's not playing for a Premier League team next season. He's got a bright future ahead of him.'
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