Jannik Vestergaard is in discussions with Leicester over a new contract after completing a stunning turnaround with the Championship leaders.
Less than a year ago the Dane was asked to train alone by then-boss Brendan Rodgers, who had taken exception to an interview Vestergaard had given to an outlet in his homeland.
Yet since Enzo Maresca took charge following relegation, Vestergaard has been exceptional.
He has made 30 appearances this term as Leicester established a 12-point lead at the top of the table, which puts them on course for an instant return to the Premier League and on track to set a points record for the second tier.
Vestergaard’s current deal runs out at the end of the season and the 31-year-old is open to extending it, having enjoyed a remarkable renaissance under Maresca.
Defender Jannik Vestergaard is in discussions with Leicester over a new contract
Once a laughing stock with Foxes fans, Vestergaard has had them singing his name at King Power Stadium this term.
His performances have merited it. Vestergaard’s composure on the ball and passing range have allowed Maresca to implement his preferred style, copied as closely as possible from the methods used by Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.
Maresca was part of the coaching staff at City as they won the Treble last season before he took over at Leicester.
Even when Vestergaard was playing regularly at the start of the season, it seemed highly unlikely he would still be at Leicester next season.
With offers from Europe, the former Southampton man seemed certain to be with a new club at the start of pre-season.
Yet Maresca is convinced he can rely on Vestergaard in the top flight and the centre-back is interested in accepting the challenge.
