Brendan Rodgers hopeful over Jamie Vardy's long-term fitness after 'hugely frustrating' period

Brendan Rodgers is hopeful that Jamie Vardy’s first major injuries of his decade at Leicester City will not have a lasting impact on the striker.

Rodgers will include Vardy in his matchday squad for just the third time this calendar year on Saturday when City host Aston Villa. A hamstring injury kept him out for two months and then his return was cut short after just two games because a knee problem.

Vardy is now back involved again and is likely to get minutes off the bench at the King Power Stadium. It ends a “hugely frustrating” period for the 35-year-old, who had previously only ever missed a couple of games at a time through injury.

With the forward getting towards the twilight of his career, there will be concern about the toll the injuries take on his body, but Rodgers insists Vardy’s speed is still “incredible”. If he maintains his athleticism and avoids injuries, he could extend his spell beyond his contract that runs out next summer.

“He’s coped well,” Rodgers said. “It’s been hugely frustrating for him. And frustrating for myself to not have someone of that calibre spearheading the team. He’s working hard and focused on finishing the season with the team, and with a little bit of luck, he can stay fit.

“His body looks great. He’s had some niggles this season but hopefully it’s not going to affect him going forward. If he gets a bit of luck with injuries, he’s still got time.

“You’ve seen him in the season when he is fit and flying, his speed is still there. That’s always the danger when they get a bit older they lose that pace, but the timing of his movement and his speed are incredible so hopefully that can stay with him for as long as it can. But I also know that it’s not going to be there forever.”

Desp