Cremonese coach explains why Vardy didn’t play vs. Como

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Lorenzo Bettoni | Last updated Sep 27, 2025 12:42 PM ET

Davide Nicola hints that Jamie Vardy will get playing time against Inter next week, but he was an unused substitute against Como because ‘we didn’t want to take useless risks.’

Cremonese remain unbeaten this season as they secured a 1-1 draw against regional rivals Como on Saturday.

Cremonese still unbeaten after 1-1 draw vs. Como

Vardy returned from an injury but remained on the bench for the whole game as Nicola started Dennis Johnsen and Federico Bonazzoli.

At the end of the game, the Italian tactician told DAZN (via TMW): “I know that not all players can play for the whole game, and I’m happy I could deploy Payero, who is an important player to us.

Nicola: Why Vardy was not introduced vs. Como

“We were cautious in not introducing Vardy because we didn’t want to take useless risks, but it will be his turn next week. He must regain rhythm, but he can only do it by playing.”

Vardy made his Serie A debut on September 15 in an away game at Hellas Verona, coming off the bench in the second half. He missed the following game against Parma due to a minor muscle injury.

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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