“Premier League Icon Shares Verdict on Leicester’s Relegation: ‘Well…'”
Former Premier League Star Hopes for Leicester's Relegation Due to Jamie Vardy's Goal-Scoring Threat
Leicester City moved five points clear of the relegation zone after a dramatic last-minute draw against Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.
Late goals from Jamie Vardy and Bobby De Cordova-Reid helped the Foxes secure the vital point, extending new manager Ruud van Nistelrooy’s unbeaten start and providing breathing space from the bottom three.
Vardy’s strike brought his season tally to double what he achieved in the 2022/23 campaign.
De Cordova-Reid described the Leicester captain as an “absolute joke” in admiration of his performance.
Vardy is now just eight goals shy of reaching 150 Premier League goals, a milestone that has caught the attention of former top-flight players.
One of those is Jermain Defoe, ranked 10th in the Premier League’s all-time top scorers list.
Defoe, who sits 20 goals ahead of Vardy, jokingly admitted he hopes Leicester gets relegated to prevent Vardy from surpassing his record.
Speaking on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football, Defoe quipped, “I’m hanging on to that top ten.”
At 37, Vardy continues to defy expectations, showing no signs of slowing down.
His goal and assist against Brighton take his tally to nine goal contributions in 14 appearances this season.
His strike in Sunday’s match was another example of his clinical finishing.
Instead of taking a touch on De Cordova-Reid’s deflected effort, Vardy instinctively poked the ball home with his right foot, sparking Leicester’s comeback.
Defoe, a prolific goal scorer in his own playing days, praised Vardy’s efficiency and understanding of the game.
“He’s such an experienced player and so efficient in front of goal,” Defoe said.
“When he gets the chance, you always fancy him to score or at least make the right decision.
“You can see in his goal against Brighton, his movement is incredible.
He’s got no interest in coming short; he’s focused on staying on the defender’s shoulder. When the moment comes, his concentration levels are immense.
Instead of taking the ball with his right foot initially, he displayed remarkable composure to poke it in. He’s just so efficient in front of goal.”
Vardy’s consistency and sharpness have been pivotal for Leicester in their fight against relegation.
His ability to adapt his game and maintain his goal-scoring prowess at 37 is a testament to his quality.
As he inches closer to Defoe’s record and the 150-goal mark, the debate about his place among Premier League legends continues to grow.
For Leicester, Vardy remains the talisman who could keep their season on track, while for Defoe, his record in the top 10 is increasingly under threat.
