rewrite this title Jamie Vardy bites back at Italian reporter in first interview as Cremonese player

Whether it’s winding up opposition fans, blowing a referee’s whistle mid-game, or dropping one-liners in press conferences, Jamie Vardy has always been one of football’s great characters.

And in his very first interview as a Cremonese player, the 38-year-old striker showed exactly why.

Vardy, who joined the newly-promoted Serie A side on a one-year deal after leaving Leicester City, was quizzed about his age and motivation during his unveiling.

“In Italy we are a little bit sceptical about players like you approaching 40. We tend to say, where’s their motivation, how fit are they? What do you say in response to the sceptics?” asked one reporter.

Vardy’s reply was as sharp as his finishing.

“You must be one of the doubters,” he snapped back. “You’re one that I’ll have to prove wrong.”

He added: “Age is just a number. As long as my legs are still doing exactly what they used to and feel as fresh as they do, I’ll carry on. At the moment there are no signs of slowing down, so I’ll keep going. I’ll be giving my all for this club.”

Cremonese, who defied expectations last season to earn promotion, have started brightly and sit joint-top of Serie A after two games.

Vardy could make his debut this Saturday in a blockbuster clash at San Siro against Inter.

Time for Vardy to put his money where his mouth is – though if his career so far has taught us anything, it’s that doubters should be worried.

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