Claudio Ranieri says Jamie Vardy has to make a quick impression on new England coach Sam Allardyce.
The Leicester City striker recorded 24 Premier League goals last season and was a regular in the Three Lions’ Euro 2016 squad, yet watched on from the bench as ‘Big Sam’s’ first game in charge ended with a 1-0 victory against Slovakia.
Also only finding the net once so far this season, Ranieri believes his star forward needs to starting showing Allardyce he can be a valuable part of the national starting XI.
“He’s refreshed, he trained very well,” said Ranieri.
“For me it is good [he didn’t play]. For him, no. Maybe he is more hungry – show me.
“You have to fight and say, ‘Hey, Sam, I am ready to play’.
“But it wasn’t only Jamie. Also [Daniel] Amartey, [Danny] Drinkwater, Ben Chilwell, Shinji Okazaki – a lot of my players went around the world without playing.
“That’s good. They recover a little more.”
Ranieri’s own attacking stocks have been bolstered, reportedly breaking Leicester’s transfer record for the £29 million signing of Islam Slimani – who could feature in this weekend’s match against Liverpool.
“He’s available. I’ve not seen him yet. He could play,” the manager said.
“I’ve spoken to him and he’s ready because he’s played all the matches for Sporting Lisbon.”
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