Rodgers asked if Vardy will start vs Roma after comeback

Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers was recently asked if star striker Jamie Vardy will be available for selection versus Jose Mourinho’s Roma in the Europa Conference League semifinals.

Having Vardy back, even for 20 minutes as a substitute, was a brilliant development for the Foxes. Irrespective of the fact that he didn’t get onto the scoresheet or assist in that small amount of time. This will be a managed comeback for the ex-England attacker, due to age and past injuries.

However, Vardy arguably remains the most significant asset on the books at Leicester; yet he is so much more than a mere benefit. In footballing terms, the No.9 has been an absolute blessing for the East Midlands club.

I’m sure you are all knowledgeable of other European divisions such as Serie A, where the Yellows and Reds hail from. Invariably these ties are going to be a far more testing affair than some of the other mild opponents Leicester have faced in the UECL, and even back in the Europa League. So having Vardy feels a necessity to progress – but is he fit to start?

"“He hasn’t trained a great deal but he came in and I spoke to him about getting 20 minutes. It was good to get him out onto the field again.“We’ll see (if he can start against Roma). I’ll have a chat with him and see how he is, and see how his recovery is. We have to be careful with him as well. He’s been out for a long period and we don’t want to rush it if we don’t need to.”– Brendan Rodgers, Leicester Mercury"

Leicester City boss’s assessment following Aston Villa bore-draw

For once, the Foxes gaffer seemed completely grounded in reality in his post-match review. Which makes for a refreshing change from ‘showing great character’ in defeat, or suggesting his side played well when they clearly did not. He said the side lacked energy; pointing at LCFC’s four matches while Villa rested.

I am not attempting to attack the Northern Irishman, but merely believe he mollycoddles the team on occasion due to overprotective ways. Usually when they really need telling off. Both approaches can be counterproductive, so a happy medium is essential.

Although, Rodgers couldn’t help himself by congratulating his players for moving the ball into ‘great areas’ during the stalemate. Though the former Liverpool chief did acknowledge that penetration was lacking. Nevertheless, ‘BR’ also admitted the second half was not up to standard; while he asserts defending was satisfactory.