Collins impressed by Heskey efforts

27 September 2010 15:33
James Collins has hailed Aston Villa striker Emile Heskey as "a players' player" who has not received the credit he deserves during his career.[LNB] Heskey has often been maligned by supporters at international and club level and he has taken time to win over the Villa fans.[LNB]But Collins insists his contribution is always recognised by his team-mates and he has made a flying start to Gerard Houllier's term as Villa manager.[LNB]Heskey scored once and set up two goals in the Carling Cup win over Blackburn and headed a superb winner in Sunday's Premier League triumph over Wolves at Molineux.[LNB]Collins said: "Emile was brilliant at Wolves. Whenever he has been called upon to play, either starting or playing, he has always made an impact.[LNB]"I thought he was superb and that goal topped off a first class performance.[LNB]"He gets a lot of stick off fans but you ask any player who has played with him or trains in the same team as him what they think of him.[LNB]"They have got nothing but good things to say about him.[LNB]"He is a superb professional and a superb footballer and good to have on your team."[LNB]Collins added: "Emile is a players' player. I wouldn't fancy playing against Emile week in and week out.[LNB]"He has shown it over the years at every club he has been at. He scores goals.[LNB]"He is a real team player, puts his body on the line for the team. It is good to see him getting his rewards."[LNB]Collins believes Heskey is benefiting from the emergence of Ashley Young in the 'hole' role behind him.[LNB]He said: "All centre-forwards want to be scoring goals and Ashley playing in the hole behind Emile is giving him chances.[LNB]"Every time you get the ball to Ashley, he is making things happen."[LNB]Collins admits the players have quickly adapted to the ideas and plans brought in by Houllier.[LNB]He said: "It has been good. He has come in and put his ideas across and the boys have taken them on board.[LNB]"Certainly the second half on Wednesday and the first half today, the way we knocked it around was as good as anyone. We've got to continue that.[LNB]"I think the club will settle down. The new manager has come in and settled things down straight away.[LNB]"Two good results always makes everyone feel better."

Source: Team_Talk