Jerry Vandam, born in Lille, France on 8 December to Ghanaian parents, is nephew of ex-Ghana international Alex Nyarko.
His unparallel talent as a defender has seen him rise through the ranks and come up as a first choice player in the highly endowed team. He tells his story as follows: “Remember going to watch my uncle play in Lens, in Paris and also in England, he remembers. Becoming a pro thus became a child‘s dream.”
He schooled in Haubourdin, a suburb area of Lilles and joined Lille Olympique Sporting Club at the age of 12.
“During that time I played in the midfield just like my uncle. It was Claude Puel that repositioned me at the right back during his last season at Lille (2007-2008). In the beginning, I was reluctant, but, gradually, I adjusted to that slot.” Claude Puel had faith in him and handed him his French Ligue 1 debit on 16 January 2008 against Rennes (3-1): “Plestan got injured fifteen minutes from the end of the match, I was introduced at the right back position and Béria was shifted to the axis.” Eleven months later he was handed a full debut on 5 December and that came with much delight. “It was against Lyon, he continues. I was selected once in Europa Ligue, but, this time, the entire France was watching us.The match was live on Canal+, but Rudi Garcia relieved me of the pressure. Facing me was Lisandro lopez, the toughest player that I have ever marked until now.” The match ended 4-3 for Lille and Vandam has come to stay but change in coaches nearly cut short his dream with the arrival of Rudi Garcia