Peterborough United youngster wants to play like Jamie Vardy

Ricky-Jade Jones (right) in action for Posh.

The 17 year-old enjoyed a breakout season in 2019-20 making 16 first-team appeaarances and scoring four goals.

His speed and strength have attracted the attention of some leading clubs in the country. The Peterborough Telegraph has previously reported interest in Jones from Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Leeds.

Jones, in an interview with Sky Sports, said: “Hearing of that interest is great, but it doesn’t distract me. It just gives me more motivation to show everyone what I can do.

“Posh is one of the best clubs in the country for developing young players. Many young players have come through Posh and gone on to enjoy a great career.

“I’ve really enjoyed it so far. I’ve got a great manager. He and the players help me all the time and I’m just loving every minute.

“I think I’m suited to becoming a Jamie Vardy-type of player. Ever since I played in the under 12s I had a coach who used to train me to get faster because my running technique wasn’t the best. Over the years I’ve gradually got faster and I’ve had a few defenders say they don’t like playing against me and that’s always nice to hear at a young age.”

Jones has been at Posh since the age of nine. Vardy was close to signing for Posh before joining Leicester City from Fleetwood Town in 2012. He’s since become a prolific Premier League goalscorer and an England international.