Jamie Vardy Gets Sir Geoff Hurst’s Backing

The 73-year-old made the first of his 49 England appearances earlier that same year, and knows exactly what Vardy will be going through as he prepares to meet up with the rest of the squad. 

“My advice to Jamie on his England call up would be, just do what you do at Club level,” said Hurst. “You have been picked for your behaviour and your form, so continue to do that. Prepare yourself as you have prepared yourself for every game this year. That’s what I did and I wish him well.” 

Vardy’s meteoric rise from non-league football with Fleetwood Town to the heady heights of the Premier League with the Foxes has happened in just three years. 

It’s a phenomenal achievement, and Hurst was delighted to see a striker who has been in-form recognised for his talents by his nation. 

He added: “I’ve seen Jamie Vardy play this season. It’s good to see him recognised. It’s a reward for the season he had and for the way Leicester City finished. It’s fantastic. Every striker is different. 

“Because he has come from a lower level he appreciates the game. If he’s always been a superstar, he might have taken things for granted. Some players come from nothing. I include myself in this category. 

“I wasn’t the best for my school, for my district, for West Ham or for England, but with determination, you can have a career and this shows in the way he plays. He is prepared to run, to work and to graft for the Club and I am delighted he has been picked. 

“I just hope we can get more Jamie Vardys across the country at other league Clubs. I think that the national team would be better for it.” 

Sir Geoff Hurst was speaking at the Leicester & Rutland County FA & McDonald’s Community Awards ceremony. To find out more information about the awards visit .