Jamie Vardy is preparing to bid farewell to Leicester City as the season draws comes to an end, following the team’s confirmation of relegation from the Premier League. At the age of 38, he has left an indelible mark over his 13-year tenure, netting 198 goals in 495 appearances and playing a pivotal role in their remarkable Premier League title triumph in 2016.
Vardy trophies with Leicester include two Championship title , an FA Cup, and a Community Shield, therefore defining him as the “greatest-ever player” for the team.
In an emotional video shared on social media, Vardy expressed, ‘After so many years here, I never imagined this day would arrive, making this announcement is incredibly difficult for me. Leicester City has been like a second home, my extended family, and my life for 13 years. The club, the city, and the people mean so much to me and my family. It’s a place that has profoundly influenced our children’s lives, those who have had the privilege of residing in Leicester for a long time, but now, it’s time for me to say goodbye. Vardy’s last season with Leicester has not been impressive, as the team faces relegation.
Currently sitting in 19th place with just 18 points, Vardy’s final match for the club will be against Ipswich Town on May 18. He insists he isn’t ready to hang up his boots just yet. ‘My only regret, and it truly pains me, is that I won’t be able to say goodbye to you [the fans] after a much more successful season,’ Vardy shared. ‘This isn’t how I envisage my departure. I’m not retiring; I want to continue playing and doing what I love most: scoring goals. I want to score for Leicester before the season concludes and many more in the future.
Even at 38, I still possess the drive and ambition to achieve even greater things.’ This season, Vardy has netted only seven goals for Leicester, a stark contrast to his remarkable 2015-16 season when he and Riyad Mahrez formed a legendary partnership that led the team to an astonishing league title, despite being 5000-1 outsiders at the start.
Leicester City Chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha in his own view spoke about Jamie by saying he is truly one of a kind. He is not only an exceptional player but also an incredible individual. He holds a special place in the hearts of everyone connected to Leicester City, and he has my deepest respect and admiration. On behalf of everyone at Leicester City, I wish Jamie and his family all the best for the future, and I know our fans will join us in giving him the send-off he rightfully deserves at the end of this season.
