In a recent Premier League fixture between Leicester City and Southampton, a notable moment occurred involving Leicester legend Jamie Vardy. While both teams are set to be relegated to the Championship, Vardy provided a unique highlight during Leicester`s 2-0 victory at the King Power Stadium on Saturday. Playing in one of his final games for the club, Vardy not only found the net but also stepped in to assist referee David Webb.
Approximately 22 minutes into the game, referee Webb was accidentally struck by a player (Southampton`s Kamaldeen Sulemana) and fell to the ground, visibly in pain. Players quickly gathered around him with concern. It was Vardy who, observing the situation and with the referee unable to officiate, picked up Webb`s whistle and blew it to signal a stop to the game. Football`s convention is that play continues until the whistle, and Vardy`s action ensured the necessary halt.
After a stoppage lasting nearly 12 minutes, Webb was eventually able to walk off the pitch under his own power and was replaced by fourth official Phil Sharp as the central referee.
Commenting on the incident after the match, Leicester manager Enzo Maresca said, “I felt sorry for the ref. He hit a brick wall… That is not easy. And Jamie Vardy blew his whistle to stop the game, so we helped him out there.”
Known for his distinctive personality on the pitch, Vardy`s involvement in stopping the game was a fitting addition to his legacy at Leicester City. He has achieved remarkable feats with the Foxes, including leading them to the Premier League, setting a record with goals in 11 consecutive top-flight games, and being instrumental in their historic Premier League title win in the 2015-16 season.
As Leicester prepares for life back in the Championship, Vardy is scheduled to play his final home match at the King Power Stadium on May 18th, against fellow relegated side Ipswich Town. At 38 years old, his future remains uncertain, but his tenure at Leicester City has undeniably provided countless memorable moments in the Premier League, with Saturday`s display being the most recent.
