Gary Neville has given his thoughts on the next steps of Jamie Vardy’s career following Leicester City’s relegation to the Championship.
Vardy, 38, could not make a positive impact during yesterday’s 1-0 defeat against Liverpool, which saw the Foxes officially relegated to the Championship after just one season back in the Premier League.
The 38-year-old striker, who played an integral part in the East Midlands club winning the 2015/16 title, is inevitably nearing the end of his career, but has still been the side’s main goal threat with seven strikes in 31 league appearances this term.
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In recent weeks, he has been linked with a move to League 1 outfit Wrexham, with The Wrexham Insider reporting that Vardy could be one of several soon-to-be free agents attracting the interest of the Welsh side.
Leicester head coach Ruud van Nistelrooy gave his thoughts on Vardy’s situation on Sunday.
“Every player’s situation is being looked at - and that’s important,” Van Nistelrooy said via the Mirror.
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“With Jamie, it’s an ongoing thing between him and the club. So far, he’s kept his own counsel.”
He added: “He’s a great captain. He’s been through thick and thin with this club. Winning the league, FA Cup, Charity Shield, promotion and relegation. He’s been doing everything he can to help the club and be loyal to this club.
“Just seeing him, he’s an example to everyone in the building and an inspiration of consistency, of mentality, of never giving up.”
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And after yesterday’s result, former Manchester United captain Neville issued a theory about the ex-England striker’s future plans.
When asked by Peter Drury on ‘The Gary Neville Podcast’ what he would suggest if he was “hypothetically advising Jamie Vardy,” Neville said: “Look, if his body feels right [he should continue]… it’ll come down to how he feels. These lads are so fit, they look so fit.
“He’s obviously lost a yard [of pace], but I think there are opportunities now that exist in America or in other parts of the world where you can go and play, you can enjoy yourself.”
He added: “I think [he should] stay at Leicester… why not? Do they not need a Jamie Vardy in the Championship? They’re going to have a lot more of the ball, they’re going to dominate the games. He knows how to work in the box in short spaces – he’s got better at that.
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"There may be a position for him for 25-30 games next season… he still could be someone [who is] important for them.”
Topics: Football, Gary Neville, Jamie Vardy, Leicester City, Premier League
Luke Davies