Vardy’s Leicester journey will end this season

Leicester City captain Jamie Vardy will leave the club at the end of the season but intends to continue his playing career.

Announcing the news on Thursday, the Foxes described Vardy as "our greatest ever player".

The 38-year-old striker, who joined in 2012 from non-league side Fleetwood Town, is the club's record Premier League scorer with 143, and in all competitions has scored 198 goals in 498 appearances.

Vardy scored 24 times in the 2015-16 Premier League campaign, helping Leicester to the first ever top-flight title in their history.

The former England international was also part of their 2021 FA Cup-winning side, when the Foxes beat Chelsea 1-0 at Wembley.

"To the fans of Leicester, I'm gutted that this day is coming, but I knew it was going to come eventually," Vardy said in a video posted by Leicester on social media.

"I've spent 13 unbelievable years at this club, with lots of success, and some downs, but the majority have all been highs. It's finally time to call it a day, which I'm devastated about, but I think the timing is right. Leicester will always, always have a massive place in my heart."

He added: "This isn't retirement. I want to keep on playing and doing what I enjoy most - scoring goals. I may be 38 but I still have the desire and ambition to achieve so much more."

Leicester boss Ruud van Nistelrooy said Vardy had stuck with the club "through thick and thin", adding: "He has achieved everything and now can go and enjoy these last years with his family.

"For his next manager, he is one of the most open and honest people I have met. He will tell you how he feels and what he is thinking. He isn't hard to manage."

Vardy described the club's season as "miserable" and a "total embarrassment" after the Foxes were relegated earlier this month.

Leicester are 19th in the table, having collected 18 points from their 33 matches.