Vardy sends warning to young pretenders

Jamie Vardy was supposed to be under pressure for his place this season – but his display against Wolverhampton Wanderers highlighted how difficult it will be for his competitors to muscle their way into the starting line-up.

It raises the question of how challenging it could be for Brendan Rodgers to manage his strikers and maximise their potential. Vardy, 34, who scored the only goal, is not expected to have the same level of game time this season, but played 90 minutes here. Meanwhile, Kelechi Iheanacho – the Community Shield match-winner who is in fine form – had fewer than 30 minutes as a substitute. Patson Daka, the 22-year-old, £23million signing from Red Bull Salzburg, was an unused substitute.

Rodgers’ system for a particular game will have a bearing on who features, with Vardy thriving in this lone

Main man: Jamie Vardy celebrates his match-winner

striker role, as Leicester started with a 4-2-3-1. Whether Leicester are fielding a back four or back three will affect how the attack lines up.

Vardy’s goal output tailed off late last season, but the movement, timing of his runs and aggression were all noted.

The challenge facing Daka was laid bare. The Zambian was signed as he has similarities with Vardy – and there are questions over whether they can play together.

And maybe Leicester do not need their full range of attacking armour because they showed here that they can be resolute. Jannik Vestergaard, the signing from Southampton, came on for the final 30 minutes, allowing tiring Leicester to move to a back three, stifling some attacking spaces for high-pressing Wolves.

With a solid start and Vardy looking hungry, there are welcome headaches for Rodgers.