If life is defined by coincidence, happenstance and fine margins - sport often has even closer calls. Things that we take for granted or as standard might not have actually occurred if it wasn't for the events leading up to the occurrence. In other words, history stories and narratives can all be so different, or totally altered, when only one simple choice is changed. And Leicester City club's lore is no different.
Why do I say this? Because one or two significant conversations at one massive football club could well have diverted the path to LCFC glory of one legendary, former Foxes star. At the time (back in 2011), Vards was turning out for now Football League Two side Fleetwood Town. He was scouted by the outfit in question while with the Cod Army, though nothing was to transpire and the Leicestershire side swooped in not long after.
Such was the hype and impression made by Vardy, that the scout watching didn't want to submit his report in case of a leak and superclubs stepping on their toes in order to hijack a hypothetical deal. What was said? What do we make of it all? And would the retired England international have been a success north of the border? The club that Vardy may have joined instead of Leicester has been revealed.
Rangers scout loved Leicester City icon Jamie Vardy
Imagine seeing the Cremonese No.10 playing non-league football and telling your recruitment bosses about it. Only to be ignored; a gem subsequently gets away.
That's what apparently happened when ex-Rangers scout John Brown 'urged' the Scottish team to sign Vards:
"The Ibrox hero observed the striker playing for Fleetwood Town in 2011.Glasgow Times
At that time, Brown was working as a scout for the club.
He phoned Ally McCoist after the first game.
On the Let Me Be Frank podcast, Brown said: "What I saw from him in the first game, I phoned Ally McCoist and said, ‘I’m not putting the report in, in case somebody leaks it.’"
Brown is said to have implored likeable coach Ally McCoist to speak to owner Craig Whyte about the matter. Nothing came of it. However, the former believes Vardy would have been 'the difference' at Ibrox. I'd agree. But we got him!