Vardy Hunger Thrills Pearson

In City’s 3-0 win over Newcastle on Saturday, both Mike Williamson and Daryl Janmaat were given their marching orders for fouls on the lively Vardy, whose relentless runs into the channel had given them a torrid afternoon. 

In just his third season since playing non-league football for Fleetwood Town, the 28-year-old has certainly found his feet in the top-flight of late, and his manager knows just how hard he can be to defend against. 

Pearson, whose career saw him carve out a reputation as an outstanding central defender, told Foxes Player when asked about facing his striker: “It would be very tough, it really would. 

“You’d have to use all your experience and know how and it’s no surprise that he was brought down as often as he was [against Newcastle]. Sometimes it will be intentional and sometimes it will be just because of his natural attributes. 

“He utilises his strengths very well. He is a quick player who is very direct, and he’s got an appetite and a thirst for causing problems. He certainly did that. It would have been nice for him to back that sort of a positive performance with putting that header away [at the end of the game], but maybe for another day.” 

Williamson’s second booking saw the City striker take a hefty tumble on the touchline and collide with a TV camera, but despite a few bruises here and there, Vardy insists that he’s thoroughly enjoying leading the blue line as the hunt for survival continues. 

“The camera survived but I’m not sure about the cameraman,” joked Vardy. “I think I clattered into him as well. It’s only a few knocks and bruises, but they will heal. 

“I’m loving playing [in this system]. It puts me on the last shoulder and gives me the chance to get straight at defenders if there’s a through ball or anything and that’s one of my strengths. The balls being played are helping me and helping the squad too.”