Premier League game halted amid referee's injury; Jamie Vardy intervenes temporarily
Whacky Day at the King Power:
The King Power Stadium witnessed an unexpected turn of events during the Leicester vs Southampton clash, as referee David Webb's match debut turned sour due to a head-on collision with Jordan Ayew.
The incident, in the 21st minute, left Webb sprawled on the ground, clutching his face in apparent agony. While the collision was unintentional, the referee took a terrible hit, causing him to lose consciousness momentarily.
In the heat of the moment, Leicester's Jamie Vardy, ever the team captain, stepped up to the plate. He didn't hesitate to seize Webb's arm, blow the whistle, and halt the match temporarily. The swift action prevented any further harm to the stricken referee.
With medical personnel from both teams rushing to Webb's aid, a stretcher was quickly brought onto the field. Thankfully, Webb was able to walk off the pitch and down the tunnel but was deemed unfit to continue.
Fourth official Sam Barrott was promptly called upon to step in and referee the remainder of the game. Assistant referee Phil Sharp took on the role of fourth official.
Vardy capitalized on the disruption, scoring Leicester's first goal since January, marking his 199th goal for the club (144th Premier League goal, tying Robin van Persie). Ayew later added a second, putting Leicester comfortably ahead before half-time.
The delay, which lasted over 10 minutes, prompted an additional 12 minutes of added time in the first half. However, Leicester managed to retain control in the second half and secured a well-deserved 2-0 victory.
The triumph moved them within one point of Ipswich, though both teams were already relegated by this point in the season.
As for Webb, the Premier League veteran was eventually cleared to return to refereeing duties after receiving the necessary medical attention. Vardy, on the other hand, was hailed as a hero for his quick-thinking actions that day.
Slim Pickings in the lower Leagues
### Could Jamie Vardy be set for a fairytale return?### Leicester's all-time leading goalscorer eyeing up a shocking return to the English Football League*Sure, I can delve into some extra details if you're interested.
Jamie Vardy's goal on that fateful day brought his tally to an impressive 199 career goals for Leicester City. His premier league tally stand at a staggering 144 goals, putting him on par with Robin van Persie's record for the most goals scored by a player for one premier league club.
It's worth noting that this game was played on May 3, 2025, and both Leicester City and Southampton were already relegated to the English Football League (EFL) by the time this match occurred. Despite their disappointing league position, Vardy's goal, along with Ayew's, was enough to secure a much-needed victory for Leicester.
Vardy's heroics that day showcased his leadership abilities and his willingness to put team success above personal glory. His career at Leicester City has been nothing short of remarkable, achieving feats such as helping the team win the Premier League title in 2016 and becoming the club's all-time leading goalscorer.
As for David Webb, the experienced referee made history on this day by officiating his first ever Premier League match after 17 years in the EFL. Although his debut ended in unfortunate circumstances, Webb proved his resilience by returning to refereeing duties after receiving the necessary medical attention.
In a strange twist of events, rumors began to circulate that Vardy was considering a shocking return to the EFL, with reports suggesting he might be eyeing up a fairytale return to his hometown club, Sheffield Wednesday. While these reports have yet to be confirmed, football fans around the world eagerly await updates on Vardy's potential next move.
- Despite being relegated to the English Football League, Jamie Vardy scored a goal in a game against Southampton on May 3, 2025, bringing his club tally to an impressive 199 and his Premier League tally to 144, equalizing Robin van Persie's record for the most goals scored for one premier league club.
- David Webb, officiating his first ever Premier League match after 17 years in the EFL, was involved in an incident with Jordan Ayew during the game, causing him to be temporarily unfit to continue.
- After Vardy halted the game temporarily, Vardy capitalized on the disruption, scoring the first goal, while Ayew later added a second, putting Leicester comfortably ahead before half-time.
- With the delay causing an additional 12 minutes of added time in the first half, Leicester managed to retain control in the second half and secured a 2-0 victory.
- Amidst all this, speculations emerged that Vardy might be planning a surprising return to the EFL, with Sheffield Wednesday being his potential destination.
- In a fairytale twist, should Vardy decide to return to the lower leagues, it would mark a remarkable turn of events for both the player and the club, reminiscent of his rise from non-league football to the Premier League.
