Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers is keen to keep veteran striker Jamie Vardy as talks continue over a new contract

BRENDAN RODGERS says old Fox Jamie Vardy has plenty of life left.

And he is hoping the 35-year-old Leicester legend will sign a new, extended contract that will see him through to the end of the 2023-24 season.

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Despite suffering thigh and knee injuries last season, Vardy finished as City’s top scorer in the Premier League with 15 goals in 25 games.

Rodgers has never lost faith in the Foxes icon and believes the veteran forward remains his top pick to give him 20 goals this season.

He said: “There have been talks but I’m not sure where it is right now. But Vards has looked good and is working further away. His appetite is still there.

“Jamie has obviously had this season and we’d like to extend that – it’s something the club and their representatives are looking into.”

Vardy had a poor afternoon in Leicester’s 2-2 home draw with Brentford on Sunday, rarely getting a chance in front of goal.

But Rodgers believes the aging killer will be looking forward to adding to the 11 goals in 14 games he already has against Arsenal on Saturday.

Vardy has scored more goals against the Gunners than any other club in his long career.

Temperatures are expected to soar into the high 30s across the Emirates but Rodgers says he will not hesitate to launch his old war horse.

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Drink breaks will be taken this weekend due to the heat and Rodgers added: “I just have to gauge if he’s going to play the full 90 minutes, an hour or 75 minutes.

“Of course, unfortunately, time plays a role as you get older in your career.

“But I don’t want to focus too much on that because Jamie did really, really well on his measurements last season.

“He still looks strong, still looks fit and he’s really determined. He still has a genuine appetite and hunger for success, which is important.

“We will only judge it during the course of the season.”