Plenty of Premier League defenders might name Jamie Vardy as their toughest opponent this season.
The Leicester City striker has tortured back lines with his non-stop running and electric pace all campaign, helping himself to 19 goals and firing the Foxes to within touching distance of the title.
And he added a couple more defenders to his list of victims on Saturday when he came off the bench to score a delightful back-flick equaliser in England’s 3-2 comeback victory over Germany in Berlin.
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But what about the toughest opponent that Vardy has faced this season? When asked the question, The Express reports that 29-year-old named one of his England teammates – Chris Smalling.
The former non-league forward is quoted by The Express as saying: “I’d have to say Chris Smalling this year; he never gives you a moment’s rest. It’s better to have him on your team than against.”
Interestingly, Vardy scored against Smalling’s Manchester United in November’s 1-1 draw at the King Power Stadium – the goal that saw him break the Premier League record for goals in 11 straight games.
The two could meet again at Old Trafford in May, in what could be a huge game in the title race, but will then be on the same team again as England prepare for Euro 2016 in France this summer.
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