Who would have bet that Leicester City would come out of nowhere to win the Premier League? Who would have bet they would have been carried by a former Non-Leaguer striker? Probably no one, and if you are the solitary genius mind who predicted this, I highly suggest a career in gambling. You can start at the sportsbook at Betser bet and clearly, with your brilliance, you will make millions. Jamie Vardy was a revelation last year for Leicester and has earned his way into the English starting XI. But did you know that Vardy was once playing his trade in lower divisions, at small Non-League clubs such as Stocksbridge Park Steels and Fleetwood Town? Vardy tallied enough goals that the higher leagues came calling, eventually landing at Leicester (who were in the 2nd division at the time) and from there it was history.
It got us thinking, who are some other Non-Leaguers to have success in the top leagues? There are more than you might expect.
3. Ben Foster
Like Vardy, Ben Foster earned his way onto the English international side (at least for a handful of caps) after gutting it through the lower leagues. Though Foster began in the Stoke academy, in his younger days he was not considered ready for the top flight leagues, and the netminder was loaned out many times, including twice to Non-Lleague teams. These teams were Tiverton Town and Stafford Rangers, as low as the 7th division of English football. Foster grew into his talent, and has been comfortably situated as the starting goalkeeper for West Bromwich Albion for years.
2. Chris Smalling
Smalling has enjoyed over 100 appearances for Premier League giant and mainstay, Manchester United, but his career started at a different M. United–Maidstone United. Smalling was quickly signed to a big league deal, joining Fulham after his brief stint at Maidstone. After a successful tenure at Fulham, Smalling cashed in and went to Man U. He even has been called up to England’s senior team, and was part of England’s 2014 World Cup roster.
1. Joe Hart
Another goalkeeper has made the list! Joe Hart has been in the crosshairs of scrutiny many times in his career, including recently, following his exit from Manchester City. Say what you will about mistakes Joe has made, but make no mistake that he has had an excellent career. Hart was the first choice keeper for Man City for nearly a decade, and has been on the English international side for nearly as long. Hart was a member of two World Cup squads, and 2 European Championship squads, and there may be more to come. All from the lad playing in lower leagues for Shrewsbury Town.
Vardy’s story is magical, especially given Leicester City’s run to glory, but it’s not completely unheard of for footballers from lower leagues to make their mark. Young players with big dreams will always come through, at least some of the time. The next one might come the local game you’re watching this weekend. I know if I see a young lad dribbling like Messi or striking like Rooney, I’ll be on Betser betting on his future. We Non-League fans can find these hidden gems before the rest of the world catches on.
