Stocksbridge Park Steels chairman responds after 'villainous' Jamie Vardy story

In a statement, Graham Furness said he ‘deeply regrets’ the interview with the paper, who subsequently claimed the club was ‘upset the multi-millionaire superstar has so far ignored their financial plight’.

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In response to the story, a spokesperson for Leicester City striker Vardy said he was ‘disappointed’ with the comments, ‘especially as he has had no formal approach from anybody at Stocksbridge’.

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Like many clubs, Stocksbridge, who play in English football’s eighth tier, have struggled financially in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic through loss of income.

Mr Furness said: “The journalist knew we had a stand named after Jamie and asked the question would we consider changing the name if we got a sponsor for the stand. I replied at the moment needs must and yes we would.”

The article also compared the Premier League Golden Boot-winner’s reported weekly salary and worth with the club’s annual playing budget and sponsorship costs, which are significantly lower.

The statement continued: “During the conversation I stated that this wasn't to be a story slagging off Jamie Vardy. We didn't approach Jamie for any contribution because, and I said this at the time, he has no more right to give us money during this time than he has to contribute to Fleetwood Town or Halifax FC.

“Jamie Vardy is held in high esteem at Stocksbridge Park Steels and we wouldn't do anything to sour our relationship.”

Vardy, now 33, scored 66 goals in 107 league games during a seven-season spell with the club, having joined aged 16. He was sold to FC Halifax Town in 2010 for £15,000.

Mr Furness added: “I have obviously been guilty of naivety in this situation.

“I apologise to Jamie Vardy and his family for any distress this story may have caused and also to fellow committee members and our sponsors.”