Vestergaard: Rewriting My Leicester City Story
By his own admission, the prospect of Vestergaard signing a new contract was not in sight last term, but after a season which the Dane calls the ‘most enjoyable’ of his career, he’s ready to play a part in City’s Premier League return.
Vestergaard’s first two seasons at King Power Stadium, after joining in 2021, were ‘bumpy’ as he puts it. There were some reports circulating last summer that the 6ft 6ins centre-back would depart in the aftermath of relegation, but the 2023/24 campaign completely transformed his fortunes at LCFC.
A mainstay in the XI across the season, Vestergaard became a man reborn. With the Foxes faithful singing his name from the stands, the 37-time capped Denmark international was a vital pillar in City’s record eighth Sky Bet Championship title. He made 44 appearances in all competitions last term.
After lifting the second tier trophy, all focus is now on the top flight – a league the Dane has played in for five years prior to 2023/24, following stints with 1899 Hoffenheim, Werder Bremen and Borussia Mönchengladbach.
It’s been a remarkable turnaround and Vestergaard himself does not shy away from it, talking after agreeing a new three-year deal in Seagrave. Not only have the dark clouds of yesteryear been lifted, but the former Southampton man in fact believes he’s just experienced his best season in football.
Asked if he could have predicted this turn of events 12 months ago, he said: “Probably not if I’m being brutally honest. It’s been the most enjoyable time for me in my whole career, actually. I think the atmosphere at the Club, the ambition, and the pressure also – going into every game having to win – it’s something I’ve enjoyed a lot. It’s been very enjoyable.
“It’s been a bit bumpy, but for the most part, it’s been filled with a lot of good people. There’s a lot of ambitious, honest and nice people, who I’ve enjoyed sharing dressing rooms and the pitch with – and even non-football situations as well.
“As much as there have been periods where it’s been a bit darker, it’s definitely been mostly enjoyable. Now, with the football, and my situation having developed in a positive way, I’m just very happy to be here.”
Seeing his reputation among the Blue Army improve has been particularly rewarding for Vestergaard, who is proud of the way he came through a tough time to become a defensive lynchpin.
“It wasn’t like that for the entirety of my stay, but obviously that change has meant a lot,” City’s No.23 explained, discussing the fans’ response to him. “It was and it has been a difficult time prior to this season.
“It’s something that fills me with some sort of pride as well that I went through the lows and I continued to work. I’ve come out on the other side and shown a little bit more of what I can contribute. I’m very thankful that some have seen it and expressed it because it means a lot.”