Vardy won’t change mind on England comeback

AN England return for Jamie Vardy is ‘highly unlikely’ because the Leicester striker is still unhappy about the lack of chances he was given at international level. The 33-year-old retired from England duty after the 2018 World Cup. But Vardy — the Premier League’s leading scorer with 17 goals — has been linked with a return following injuries to Harry Kane and Marcus Rashford. Those close to the situation say he is unconvinced about a U-turn after his England career was hampered by a lack of opportunities. England manager Gareth Southgate has limited options for the central striker role with Kane and Rashford out for around three months, and Euro 2020 warm-up matches against Italy and Denmark to come. Tottenham’s Kane has a ruptured hamstring, while United’s Rashford has a double stress fracture of his back. Southgate has not closed the door on Vardy but there is little interest on either side. ‘It’s highly unlikely,’ a source said. ‘Jamie retired because of a lack of opportunities and he would take some convincing that the situation would not be the same should he come back.’ Vardy is aware he could start both March matches but be back on the bench once Kane and Rashford recover. Chelsea’s Tammy Abraham is the only recognised England striker who is fit, with a call-up for Southampton’s in-form Danny Ings likely. As reported by

Sportsmail, Southgate — a big fan of using younger players — is also keen on United teenager Mason Greenwood.