Jamie Vardy Praised by Maresca Ahead of Leicester Reunion

Jamie Vardy, Leicester City’s star striker is hailed by Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca as the best English striker of his generation even surpassing legends like Harry Kane and Wayne Rooney. Maresca, who will reunite with Vardy and Leicester this Saturday, praised Vardy’s versatility and sharpness in front of goal. Despite being 37, Vardy continues to start for Leicester, scoring four goals in the Premier League this season.

Maresca emphasized Vardy’s adaptability particularly his ability to evolve his game, citing how Vardy adjusted his playing style last year by dropping deeper to link play while maintaining his clinical edge in front of goal. Vardy’s rise to prominence is a remarkable story having started his career in non-league football before joining Leicester in 2012.

Within four years, he helped lead the Foxes to a Premier League title, setting a record for scoring in 11 consecutive matches.  He also won the FA Cup in 2021 and is the oldest player to win the Premier League Golden Boot. Despite a more modest international career, scoring seven goals in 26 games, Jamie Vardy remains Leicester’s first-choice striker.

While Vardy’s achievements are impressive, comparisons with Kane and Rooney highlight different strengths. Kane with his 213 Premier League goals and record for England has outscored both Vardy and Rooney.  Rooney known for his versatility and leadership at Manchester United, won multiple trophies including five Premier League titles and the Champions League.

As Maresca prepares to face Leicester, the connection he shared with the club remains strong. Although unsure of the reception from Leicester fans, Maresca expressed gratitude for his time at the club where he led them to promotion last season. Despite the departure, Maresca fondly remembers the bond with his players making this reunion emotional.