Roy Hodgson is contemplating a shock England call-up for Leicester City forward Jamie Vardy, Sportsmail understands.

The national team manager was at the King Power Stadium for Leicester’s 2-0 win over Southampton as Vardy, 28, produced another vibrant display.

He set up Riyad Mahrez’s second goal to take his tally to four assists and three goals in his last eight Premier League games, having been nominated for the player of the month award.

Jamie Vardy (left) could receive a surprise call-up to the England squad after impressing of late

Vardy (right) has scored three and set up four goals in his last eight Premier League games

Hodgson is exploring his attacking options for next month’s internationals against the Republic of Ireland and Slovenia, given Harry Kane and Danny Ings are expected to play for the Under 21s at the European Championships. The same applies to Saido Berahino.

With Daniel Sturridge out injured a spot has opened up. Charlie Austin, scorer of 17 Premier League goals, has been looked at as Rickie Lambert struggles for minutes at Liverpool. Wayne Rooney and Danny Welbeck are automatic picks if fit.

Vardy, who has been playing with pain-killing injections in his foot, is interesting Hodgson because of his pace and ability to win possession from the front.

It would represent a remarkable rise were Hodgson to select Vardy, who was playing for Stocksbridge Park Steels in the eighth tier in 2010, and non-league Fleetwood Town just three years ago.

Leicester manager Nigel Pearson has paid tribute to his striker recently. ‘Look at his rise from being a Conference player,’ he said.

Roy Hodgson, signing autographs ahead of Chelsea's game, was at the King Power stadium to watch Foxes

‘When he first broke on to the scene here, there were plenty of people who were questioning whether he could play in the Championship. But players need time to adapt.

‘Especially with strikers if chances don’t go your way or you’re not creating chances — they’re under even more pressure.

‘I believe players like Vardy have surpassed probably their own expectations of how far they can do. There are always positive stories around.’

Riyad Mahrez scored both goals in 2-0 defeat of Southampton to boost their survival hopes