Thursday 21 May 2015 20:06, UK
Jamie Vardy’s England call-up completes a remarkable rise from non-league – and he’ll seize his chance, says Leicester coach Kevin Phillips.
The 28-year-old was signed by Leicester in 2012 from non-league Fleetwood Town and, after playing a key role as the Foxes won the Championship last season, Vardy has helped Nigel Pearson’s men retain their Premier League status in remarkable fashion this term.
Vardy may only have scored four goals in his first season in the top flight but Phillips says his speed will have appealed to England boss Roy Hodgson – and the striker has the character to thrive alongside the nation’s top talent.
“I’m delighted for him,” Phillips told Sky Sports. “I’m sure it will have come as a major surprise for him – if I’m being honest, I’m a little bit surprised myself.
“But it shows every other striker in the Premier League that Roy Hodgson is willing to give you an opportunity. Jamie’s only scored four goals this season but his performances, willingness and pace have obviously impressed.
“He’s got something a lot of other people haven’t got – he’s got raw pace. He upsets defenders, causes mayhem and that creates space and opportunities for other people.
“That is what will have caught Hodgson’s eye.
“I obviously know him well and he won’t be overawed by the situation, either. He’s a confident lad and he’ll settle in nicely in that environment.
“It will do him the world of good to be training alongside world class players, too, and I expect him to make the most of his opportunity.”
Vardy's got something a lot of other people haven’t got – he’s got raw pace. He upsets defenders, causes mayhem and that creates space and opportunities for other people.
Hard work
Phillips heaped praise on Vardy for his rapid rise to the top and says the call-up is reward for the hard work he’s put in over his career.
“He has to remember that two and a half years ago he was in non-league,” said Phillips.
“His rise from there to being picked for England is fantastic. You have to give credit to the player for believing. Now he’s got his opportunity I hope he goes on and takes it.
“He’s a good character, a great lad to have in the dressing room and isn’t shy of speaking up. I believe he’ll go into the England dressing room exactly the same and not be fazed by it. That’s a good trait to have.
“He’s confident in his own ability and I’m sure he’ll show everyone just what he can do.”
