Leicester City manager Ruud van Nistelrooy has lauded Jamie Vardy as “one of the greatest” players in Premier League history, describing him as the “total package” as the veteran striker prepares for his final appearance for the Foxes.
A Legendary Career Nears Its End
Vardy, 38, is set to lead Leicester City out for the last time at King Power Stadium on Sunday against Ipswich Town. The match marks his 500th appearance for the club, exactly 13 years after joining from non-league Fleetwood Town for £1 million. With 199 goals to his name, Vardy is just one shy of reaching the 200-goal milestone for Leicester.
Van Nistelrooy’s High Praise
Speaking ahead of the match, Van Nistelrooy emphasized Vardy’s remarkable consistency and dedication:
“When you see the amount of times a player is performing at the highest level, for me that is the biggest achievement,” Van Nistelrooy told reporters. “When you’re capable of performing in 13 seasons at this level, coming up to 500 games, coming … .”
He added, “Then you look at the trophies … .”
A Storied Legacy
Vardy’s journey from non-league football to Premier League stardom is nothing short of inspirational. He played a pivotal role in Leicester’s improbable 2015–16 Premier League title win, notably breaking Van Nistelrooy’s record by scoring in 11 … league games. His accolades include the Premier League Golden Boot in the 2019–20 season and the FWA Footballer of the Year award.
Beyond individual honors, Vardy helped Leicester secure the 2021 FA Cup, further cementing his status as a club legend.
What’s Next
While Sunday’s match will be Vardy’s last for Leicester, he has expressed a desire to continue playing elsewhere. Van Nistelrooy confirmed, “This will be his last game for … , he is committed to perform and … .”
As Vardy prepares for his farewell appearance, the football world will watch with admiration, celebrating a career that epitomizes perseverance, excellence, and passion for the game.
