London: Aston Villa striker Emile Heskey has
called a halt to his spluttering England career after retiring
from international duty on Thursday.
Heskey endured a frustrating time at the World Cup after
being criticised for his performances in England`s first two
group matches and then left out by manager Fabio Capello for
the team`s last two games of the tournament.
Capello initially believed Heskey`s partnership with
Wayne Rooney was key to England`s success after he impressed
during England`s World Cup qualifying campaign.
But the former Liverpool star arrived at the World Cup on
the back of a poor season with Villa and was well below his
best in South Africa.
It was Heskey`s lack of goals for England that often saw
him singled out for criticism from fans.
The 32-year-old scored just seven times in 62 appearances
and has finally decided to bring an end to his England career
in the aftermath of a woeful World Cup for his country, which
ended with a 4-1 second round defeat against Germany.
Heskey said, "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.”
"I would like to thank every manager I have played under,
everyone at The FA and the fans for all their support over the
years.”
"I wish the management team and the playing squad all the
best for the future."
Bureau Report
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