Premier League exports to Italy have been a roaring success in recent years and Leicester legend Jamie Vardy is aiming to keep up that hot streak. 

The 38-year-old is raring to go ahead of a potential debut at Cremonese on Monday night, away at Verona. 

The newly-promoted Serie A side are a surprising two wins from two and Vardy could keep the feel-good factor going if he can hit the ground running. 

‘You watch him play – he was unbelievable. Watching him score most weeks was really encouraging for me. 

‘Having watched that, me coming here and trying to do exactly the same – it’s really exciting.’

Jamie Vardy, joined by wife Rebekah, is looking forward to his new adventure in Italy

Del Piero was a standout for Juventus, appearing in over 500 matches and scoring 208 goals. Similar to Vardy, he played until the age of 39, showcasing remarkable longevity.

Vardy, along with his wife Rebekah and their children—Megan, 20, Taylor, 15, Sofia, 14, Finley, eight, and Olivia, six—plans to join him soon. However, there are still some bureaucratic steps to complete.

He added: ‘At the moment, they aren’t here yet, as we need to go through the necessary visa processes. However, they’re eagerly anticipating the move.’

‘There is a sense of excitement about experiencing a new language. Once I made my choice, I was all set to come. I’m adjusting well and ready to start,’ he stated.

‘It’s all about focusing on match days, aiming for victories, and dedicating myself to help my teammates as much as possible, contributing with important goals.’

Rebekah did join him in Italy for the signing of his contract but has since returned home while they sort out the paperwork on her visa.  

He has a one year deal with option for a further year with the Lombardy-based club. 

The forward was given a hero’s welcome by fans – even autographing the leg of a supporter who had a tattoo of him inked on it.

Vardy is yet to be joined permanently by his wife as they sort out her visa 

The Leicester legend moved on this summer and was convinced to join Cremonese

Vardy’s move to the Serie A new boys may have raised eyebrows in some quarters but a chat with manager Davide Nicola was a key factor. 

‘The enthusiasm he has for the club and the game, his desire for advancement, and building a team of dedicated fighters really resonates with me,’ he remarked.

‘Every week, it’s not about who you’re playing against, it’s what you do as a team and that’s what we’re just going to concentrate on. 

‘They’re all going to be difficult. Everyone wants to get three points. I might have to adapt slightly, but it’s something that I’m looking forward to doing. I’m here to fight, to score, and to help this club make its mark.’

The 38-year-old is aiming to recapture his best form in the twilight of his career

During his 13 years at Leicester, Vardy made 500 appearances and scored 200 goals in what became a historic era for the club. 

He helped the Foxes win the Premier League and FA Cup for the first time in their history and also won the Golden Boot in 2020.

It will be fascinating to see if he can still cut it at a high level and make an impact for Cremonese as they bid to beat the drop in Serie A this season. 

Verona v Cremonese, live tonight from 5.30pm – exclusively on DAZN