Vardy stepping down is boost for Leicester

LEICESTER CITY believe Jamie Vardy’s retirement from international football will benefit them on and off the pitch. Striker Vardy, 31, will not be named in the England squad today to face Spain and Switzerland after telling manager Gareth Southgate he no longer wants to be considered. Instead, he will remain at Leicester during the international break. Left back Christian Fuchs said: ‘Having him full-time is good — the banter will grow. We are happy. ‘Jamie is a great scorer but this was a personal decision. I stopped playing for Austria to focus on my family and the team where I feel comfortable and am happy.’ Manager Claude Puel is building a new side at Leicester but Vardy, a survivor from Claudio Ranieri’s 2016 Premier League-winning team, is still considered a key player. Puel thinks Vardy could have carried on for England but admits the club will benefit. ‘He can be available without all the tiredness after international games,’ said Puel. ‘He could have continued for two or three seasons but feels this is the moment to stop. ‘If he continues to keep his desire at Leicester, it’s a good choice. He can focus on his game and give all the things in the right way to prepare.’