Jamie Vardy reveals surprising boyhood inspiration as Leicester legend prepares for potential Serie A debut with Cremonese

At 38, Vardy has joined Serie A club Cremonese, marking a significant shift in his illustrious career. Departing from Leicester City after 13 years, where he scored 200 goals in 500 appearances, Vardy is set to bring his experience and goal-scoring prowess to the Italian league. Despite concerns about his age, the striker is determined to prove his critics wrong. In a candid interview with DAZN, the English striker talks about his upcoming challenges.

“Once I made my decision, that was it. I was coming here," he said. "I’m settling in really well and just can’t wait to get going now. It’s all about match days and wanting to pick the results up, so now it’s about just knuckling down when I get given the opportunity, helping my teammates out as much as I can and hopefully chipping in with some goals.”

Reflecting on his early influences, Vardy revealed that Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero was his footballing idol.

“When I was younger, it was Del Piero," he added. "You watch him play – he was unbelievable. Watching him score most weeks was really encouraging for me. Having watched that, me coming here and trying to do exactly the same - it’s really exciting.”

Vardy's decision to move to Italy was also influenced by conversations with Cremonese's manager, Davide Nicola. The striker was drawn to Nicola's passion for the club and his vision of building a team of fighters.

“The passion that he’s got for the football club and for the football itself, and how he wants to progress and wanting a team of fighters - that was me down to a tee," he further added. "Every week, it’s not about who you’re playing against, it’s what you do as a team and that’s what we’re just going to concentrate on. They’re all going to be difficult. Everyone wants to get three points. I might have to adapt slightly, but it’s something that I’m looking forward to doing."

The former Leicester striker's family is still in England completing their Visa procedures but they play an instrumental part as he about to kick-off his Serie A career.

"They’re not here yet at this moment - obviously you have to go through the procedures to get visas and things like that – but they’re really looking forward to it. A real buzz and excitement, especially with getting to learn a new language as well."

Vardy is all set to make his Serie A debut on Monday when Cremonense faces Verona. He is excited and says: "I’m here to fight, to score, and to help this club make its mark. Forza Cremonese."

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