Unfortunately Vardy will be out injured for longer than initially expected

Unfortunately Jamie Vardy might be sidelined with a hamstring injury longer than first expected, even though Leicester City are without a recognised striker.

Kelechi Iheanacho is at the African Cup of Nations for January and possibly some of February – along with Wilfred Ndidi and Daniel Amartey – while Patson Daka remains injured. With Vardy also unavailable, this leaves no out-and-out goalscorer for Foxes manager Brendan Rodgers to use in his team.

And that sentiment certainly goes for the immediate future as Rodgers confirmed that none of the currently absent teammates will be ready for the FA Cup campain which kicks off on Saturday. Watford are the opponents as Leicester’s defence of the cup begins.

Ayoze Perez or Harvey Barnes – Barnes’ status is not clear as he was supposedly training again, while an appearance even as a substitute now seems unlikely – seem to be the most likely to lead the line as a solo forward.

Though the Northern Irishman may resort to an imitation of Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola’s false nine, which is surprisingly successful for the Citizens. Yet we all know the quality at their disposal in order to efficiently execute the system.

Vardy is still producing the goods at his veteran age of 34 – soon-to-be 35 – and is still arguably the best option for the King Power outfit when taking to the field. Whilst Daka fans will point out that the Zambian is making his name known and might just be the heir apparent to Vardy’s crown as No.9.

Sadly Rodgers will be without the ex-England attacker for up to two months, it has emerged. You can read more on that story at lcfc.com.

Other Leicester City news from presser

Aside from fitness problems and the like, Rodgers also spoke of his frustration with rearranged fixtures causing congestion, which can further affect player health. The former Liverpool gaffer said he did not wish to continue mentioning the issue, although he insisted he disagreed with the decision.