Jamie Vardy: The Premier League’s most underrated man?

Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy exploded onto the scene, making a name for himself during Leicester’s shock 5000-1 title-winning season.  The Leicester number nine has since gone on to prove he is far from a one-season wonder, posting impressive numbers in the campaigns that followed. However, Vardy’s work often goes under the radar with the striker rarely getting the plaudits he deserves, making him perhaps one of the most underrated players in the league.

When you think of the Premier League’s top forwards, the likes of Sergio Aguero, Harry Kane, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mohamed Salah spring to mind. Vardy’s name is often overlooked on this list despite being one of the leagues most consistent performers. Only Sergio Aguero and Sadio Mane have posted better numbers than the 32-year-old in 2019, with Vardy scoring 15 goals since the turn of the year.

What’s more impressive is that since his arrival to the league in the 2014/15 season, Opta states only Harry Kane (124) and Sergio Aguero (116) have scored more Premier League goals than Jamie Vardy (82). The Englishman has consistently shown that he has what it takes to perform at the highest of levels, but his impressive return is often forgotten by fans and pundits alike.

It’s possible that Vardy’s ability is overlooked because he plays for a midtable side rather than one which challenges for silverware regularly. Despite this, he still manages to post numbers which surpass many of the most talented footballers in the league. He uses his pace and power to terrorize and outmaneuver defenders but does so without being in the spotlight of the media like many others.

The Leicester man appeared on the scene fairly late for a striker of his ability, rising through the ranks of the English football leagues. Vardy never made a high-profile club move like most top strikers which is perhaps why he is overlooked as one the top strikers. Not only is his goalscoring record impressive, but Vardy is a big game player, performing incredibly well against the best sides in the league.

Last season, only Sergio Aguero (8) and Roberto Firmino (6) scored more goals than Vardy (5) against the ‘top six’.  The number nine’s goalscoring record speaks for itself, with many wondering whether the Foxes can break into the Europa League positions this season and bring European football back to the King Power.

Despite being a veteran of the game at 32-years-old, the pacey striker looks as fit as ever. He’s had an electric start to this season’s Premier League campaign and has already registered three goals in just four games. Leicester look a force to be reckoned with under Brendan Rodgers, with Jamie Vardy continuing to play a key role in their system. If the ex-England international can continue to hit similar numbers to his previous campaigns, we could be looking at the latest striker to join the Premier League 100 club.

Perhaps now, it’s time that we start giving him the plaudits he deserves and recognising the striker as one of the best in the league.