Jamie Vardy refusal not of much Concern to Wenger

It seems Jamie Vardy’s refusal has been taken sportingly by Arsene Wenger.


The Frenchman says he admires Vardy’s loyalty to the Foxes and wishes for the striker to keep doing well.

Because of a “let-go” clause in his contract, Vardy was free to make a final call on his proposed transfer to Arsenal. Leicester did not have much of a role to play in that.

And given the difference in the statures of Arsenal and Leicester as Football clubs, despite the latter winning the Premiership the previous season, Vardy’s response was unlikely to be negative to the Gunners.

But, he kept everyone guessing for about 20 days or so and then, the word came out from Leicester that he had nodded to pen an extension.

The majority of the Arsenal fans and to some extent, the Arsenal hierarchy as well, were convinced that Vardy was going to move to North London.

So, the news of his extension with Leicester was almost an embarrassment to the Arsenal family, but, Wenger, like the iceman that he is, has no bitter feelings to express.
Yesterday, Wenger was quoted saying on French TV, “Its official Jamie is not taking any transfer.”

“I wouldn’t deny our interest. Yes, it was there. But, then, the player had to make the call.”

“He is one of those who had a crack at the higher level rather late. Leicester presented him that opportunity. Now, at twenty nine and the season that he just had, he doesn’t want to leave them which must be understood and respected.”

When asked about the status of his pursuit for his compatriot centre half N’Golo Kante who is also from Leicester, Wenger said, “I cannot speak with surety as far as that is concerned. Quite a few teams are targeting him. Let’s wait.”