FOLLOWING a transfer window in which the best part of £1billion was spent by Premier League clubs, it has been refreshing to see a former non-league player make it big.

Jamie Vardy announced himself on the main stage by scoring the fifth goal in Leicester City’s amazing 5-3 victory over Manchester United on Sunday.

It completed a rapid rise for the striker, who just three years ago was on target for Halifax in a 1-1 draw against Worcester City at St George’s Lane.

He had a fine reputation when he turned out in that Conference North fixture but few would have imagined the impact he has made in the game in such a short space of time.

From Halifax, he joined Fleetwood Town before the Foxes paid £1million for his services in May 2012.

Vardy’s progression proves that you don’t need to have a huge price tag around your neck to be a success in the top-flight.

Likewise, Crystal Palace striker Dwight Gayle, who used to ply his trade at Bishop’s Stortford and against City in November 2011, burst on to the scene last season.

Talent should always be the trump card and both are making the most of the opportunities afforded to them.

Both are also English to boot and, while it would be wrong to trumpet them for the national side so early in their top-flight careers, there aren’t many homegrown strikers in the Premier League.

At 27 and 24 respectively, it wouldn’t be too much of a leap of faith to see either one day get a call from Roy Hodgson if they continue how their progress. Just ask Rickie Lambert.

They have made it to the top the hard way and it is great to see them reaping the rewards.