- Vardy is hoping to equal Ruud Van Nistelrooy’s record of scoring in 10 straight Barclays Premier League games
- Ranieri will not risk Vardy if he is not 100 per cent fit
Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri says he will only include Jamie Vardy in his starting XI if he has shrugged off the knock he picked up against Watford last time out.
Vardy had to sit out England’s friendlies against Spain and France over the international break due to an injury he sustained in the 2-1 victory over the Hornets at King Power Stadium on 7 November.
Ranieri explained in his pre-match press conference that Vardy will be assessed closer to Saturday’s Barclays Premier League clash with Newcastle United at St. James’ Park.
City’s No.9 is looking to equal Ruud Van Nistelrooy’s streak of netting in 10-straight Premier League fixtures, but the City boss says he will not risk playing the 12-goal striker if he is not 100 per cent fit.
“I don’t know [whether he’ll be fit for Saturday’s game],” Ranieri said of Vardy’s fitness. “Today (Thursday) he trained a little and tomorrow I hope he can continue to train.
“On Saturday morning I’ll choose. If he’s fit, he’ll play because every match he wants to play. I hope he’s available.
“Every time I speak with the doctor or physio. If they tell me he’s okay, 100 per cent, he plays. If not, I don’t want to risk the player.
“Not only Jamie, in all my career I don’t want to risk a player for one match and then lose for one month. That is my philosophy. I hope he’s okay.”
While Vardy missed out on international duty with the Three Lions, a total of 10 senior players saw international action over the past few days.
Alongside Vardy’s injury update, midfielder Matty James is continuing his recovery from a knee problem he sustained against Southampton in May.
Ranieri said of the rest of his squad: “Yes, everybody [else is fit]. I’m waiting on the captain (Wes Morgan). It’s a long journey but he’s okay.”