Aston Villa 1 West Ham 1: Hosts give it up but Heskey is still a believer

19 April 2009 20:24
Emile Heskey has defended his decision to ignore Liverpool and join Aston Villa even though the West Midlands club's slim chances of Champions League qualification were effectively ended by this disappointing draw. The England striker, who scored Villa's goal in white after referee Rob Styles ordered the home side to wear their third strip because of a colour clash, had cited the prospect of Champions League football as a key reason for signing in January. Although Arsenal have a tricky run-in - including games against Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea - many Villa players sounded as though they have given up the chase after this result. 'It is hard for all of us - even the ones who are not playing,' said Heskey, reflecting on the depressed atmosphere among players as theytrudged out of Villa Park following an eighth match without a win.

Source: Daily_Mail