Leicester City star Jamie Vardy to return to action next week

Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri has confirmed that Jamie Vardy is likely to return to action next week, eight days after groin surgery.

The 28-year-old, who has scored 15 goals so far this season, will miss Sunday's FA Cup third-round tie against Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane, but should be back for next Wednesday's Premier League match against Spurs.

In Friday's press conference, Vardy told reporters: "Jamie is okay. Today he is working with the physio and he should be ready for the next match in the league.

"I said to my physio that I don't want to lose him for a long time. If he is ready for the second match against Tottenham that is okay, but if not we will look at Aston Villa [next weekend]."

The Foxes are currently second in the league table, two points adrift of leaders Arsenal.