Former Halifax striker Vardy relaxed over attempt to set record, says Ranieri

England striker Vardy will set a new Premier League record if he scores in his 11th straight game on today.

Leicester host Manchester United, a point ahead of the visitors at the top of the table, with Vardy having equalled Ruud van Nistelrooy’s 10-game scoring record in the 3-0 win over Newcastle.

The focus has been on Vardy during his remarkable run and Ranieri feels it has been ideal for the 28-year-old former Halifax Town and Stockbridge Park Steels frontman.

He said: “I think it’s good Jamie has this – maybe all his team-mates will try to help him. But the main idea is the team. After, there is Jamie, there is me and everybody – the team.

“I hope for him and the fans he gets the record – but sooner or later someone will break the record. I hope for Jamie he does it.

“He’s the same (this week). We have a very good spirit, we know on Saturday there will be a very good challenger for us. It’s great for us to improve.”

United have the best defence in the top flight, having conceded just nine goals but have come under fire for a lack of attacking flair.

Ranieri reckons manager Louis van Gaal will get it right at Old Trafford and they have already improved under him.

He said: “Van Gaal has played (managed) a lot of fantastic teams. I remember I watched his training sessions at Ajax long time ago when we were young. I remember playing him at Barcelona and Bayern Munich. He is a fantastic manager. My respect for him is very big.

“Slowly, slowly they are getting better, building, he’ll get it right.”