Veteran striker Jamie Vardy is defying age stereotypes and crediting Leicester City manager Enzo Maresca for his evolution this season. Despite being 37 years old, Vardy showcased his enduring quality by coming off the bench to score twice in Saturday’s 5-0 victory over Stoke, bringing his season goal tally to 10 across all competitions.
For Vardy, age is merely a number, and he attributes his longevity to diligent self-care and recovery routines.
It had Leicester fans chanting for “10 more years” of Vardy, whose goals helped the Foxes to Premier League and FA Cup glory in the past decade.
“Age is just a number,” Vardy said.
“You are as as old as you feel, how your legs feel, and I make sure I look after myself and make sure I recover right and do extra when I’m at home.
“So as long as I keep doing that, I’ll keep feeling fresh.”
With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, Vardy remains focused on the present, refusing to dwell on past achievements. “I don’t really look back, it’s all about looking forward,” he affirmed during an interview with BBC Radio Leicester.
Having been Leicester’s top scorer for seven consecutive Premier League seasons, including the remarkable title-winning campaign of 2015-16, Vardy’s impact on the club’s success cannot be overstated. From propelling them to promotion from the Championship to clinching Premier League and FA Cup glory, Vardy’s explosive style of play has been instrumental.
Under Maresca’s tutelage, however, Vardy faces a new set of challenges, as the manager emphasizes a methodical, possession-based approach to the game.
Despite the shift in tactics, Vardy has adapted seamlessly, as evidenced by his recent goals against Stoke. Reflecting on Maresca’s coaching style, Vardy acknowledged the importance of continuous learning and adaptation, emphasizing the enjoyment he derives from the team’s evolving playing style.
“Like anything, you can never be too old to learn something new,” Vardy said.
“It’s the way he wants us to play and when you are on the training pitch, it’s all about taking that, practicing that and making sure that you are able to do it so you give yourself a chance of getting into his team.
“Playing the football we do has been really enjoyable for myself personally.
“It has added a different dimension to my game, so it’s been brilliant.”
As Leicester strives for promotion back to the Premier League, Vardy remains a vital asset, blending his experience with newfound tactical acumen under Maresca’s guidance. With his enduring quality and unwavering commitment to self-improvement, Vardy exemplifies the adage that age is indeed just a number in the world of football.