Why Jamie Vardy blew referee's whistle during Leicester vs Southampton match

Updated: 05 May, 2025 • 0 • min read

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Why Jamie Vardy blew referee's whistle during Leicester vs Southampton match

Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy took centre stage in one of the most unexpected moments of the season - and it had nothing to do with scoring goals.

During the Foxes' 2-0 victory over Southampton on Saturday, the 38-year-old stunned fans by blowing the referee's whistle himself after match official David Webb was injured and unable to stop play.

Webb was accidentally floored by Saints forward Jordan Ayew, falling to the ground clutching his face as Southampton broke down the left flank.

With the referee down and the game continuing, Vardy acted on instinct.

Quand Vardy se prend pour l'arbitre 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/h6wLyx90k4
— VOOsport (@VOOsport) May 3, 2025

"I thought I'd stop the game," says Vardy

Speaking to BBC Sport after the match, Vardy explained his unorthodox intervention.

I saw Southampton breaking down the left and with the ref down I thought, "I'll blow his whistle to stop the game."

The move caused confusion, but also laughter, as Vardy momentarily took on refereeing duties.

The real whistle was soon returned to its rightful owner - or rather, to the fourth official Sam Barrott, who replaced the injured Webb for the remainder of the match.

Vardy Nearing Milestone in Emotional Farewell Season

In more typical fashion, Vardy also made headlines by scoring his 199th goal for Leicester, putting him within touching distance of a remarkable double century.

With his departure confirmed at the end of the season, Vardy will hope to sign off with a personal milestone - and another moment of history in a career full of unforgettable highlights.

Leicester's win sealed a positive result in a meeting between two recently relegated Premier League clubs, with the Foxes now aiming to finish their Championship campaign on a high.

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