England target man Emile Heskey calls it a day

Published on Thursday 15 July 2010 19:09

EMILE Heskey, who has announced his retirement from international football, could only manage seven goals in 62 appearances but successive England managers valued him as a target man.

The 32-year-old Aston Villa striker was seen as the player who could get the best out of first Michael Owen and then Wayne Rooney.

Heskey scored at the 2002 World Cup finals, against Denmark, but his poor strike rate in an England shirt gave his critics plenty of ammunition.

FDespite playing a key role in England's impressive qualifying campaign for the 2010 World Cup under Fabio Capello, Heskey's international career was to end in disappointment following a poor showing by the whole squad in South Africa.

Heskey had started the matches against the United States and Algeria, but was dropped for the final group game against Slovenia, which England won 1-0 thanks to a goal from his replacement Jermain Defoe.

What would prove to be his final international appearance as a late substitute came during the 4-1 defeat by Germany in the last 16.

"I have enjoyed every moment of my England career and worn the shirt with pride every time I have been fortunate enough to have been selected," said Heskey.

Meanwhile, France striker Thierry Henry has also announced his retirement from international football.

The 32-year-old former Arsenal and Barcelona player, who signed for Major League Soccer team the New York Red Bulls on Wednesday, played only a bit part in France's dismal WorldCup campaign in South Africa which ended at the group stage.