Jamie Vardy has stopped using 'snus', the controversial chewing tobacco, but insists England manager Gareth Southgate has given him permission to down Red Bull energy drinks at breakfast.

The popularity of snus in English football was highlighted by Sportsmail earlier this year.

Leicester striker Vardy is one of the most high-profile players to have used the product and was photographed holding a box of snus and a can of Red Bull during England's ill-fated Euro 2016 campaign.

Jamie Vardy holding a box of snus and a can of Red Bull during England's Euro 2016 campaign

'Snus' is a moist tobacco product, typically supplied in small tea-bag style pouches

Even though snus is not banned, Vardy's use of the products raised eyebrows, given the health risks linked to tobacco and the high sugar content of energy drinks.

Vardy, who has also given up his habit of drinking port the night before games, says he no longer uses snus but insists Southgate has no issue with Red Bull.

'I had to kick it because it was made a big deal,' said Vardy. 'So I don't think I'll be getting pictured with them again.

England striker Vardy has stopped using 'snus', the controversial chewing tobacco

Gareth Southgate (left) has given Vardy permission to drink Red Bull energy drinks at breakfast

'I don't know why (it caused a fuss). There's nothing wrong with them.

'I decided myself. I thought I don't need the hassle and we're here to concentrate on England.

'Even if you don't look at the papers, someone's going to mention it, so what's the point? Concentrate on football.'

As for Red Bull, Vardy, who is set to play against Costa Rica on Thursday, added: 'The manager is fine. He sees me at breakfast every morning so the Red Bulls are still there. But I can't have the no-sugar version — it doesn't taste the same.'