Source: Daily_Mail
Gerard Houllier: Aston Villa will benefit from Emile Heskey quitting international football
Gerard Houllier believes Aston Villa will reap the benefits of Emile Heskey's decision to quit international football with England.[LNB]And new Villa boss Houllier is backing the often maligned Heskey, who stepped down in the aftermath of the World Cup, to play a major role for the club.[LNB]Heskey impressed as a substitute during the mid-week Carling Cup win over Blackburn, scoring once and setting up two goals for Ashley Young in a 3-1 success.[LNB] Eye for goal: Emile Heskey fires home against Blackburn in the Carling Cup[LNB]He was often used as a substitute under Martin O'Neill but could come into contention to start Sunday's derby encounter at Wolves.[LNB]Houllier said: 'He decided to stop his international career so now it means he can repeat games for us.[LNB]'The whole England team suffered (received criticism) for what happened in South Africa. But, if you remember the game against Germany, and I was at it, if the goal from Lampard had been allowed it would have been 2-2 at half-time.[LNB]'Sometimes things go your way, sometimes they don't, but whatever you say about Emile he is a good man and a good player.[LNB]'I read a few things about what he said when he retired and it's very sensible what he said, that his time has gone now, he's 32-33, there are some young players coming through.[LNB]'Emile will be 100 per cent Villa and as the manager I am happy.'[LNB]Houllier signed Heskey when Liverpool boss from Leicester a decade ago in an £11m deal and has no doubt he can still be a major force.[LNB]He said: 'All strikers need confidence. They need to feel they have the backing of the manager, club and the fans.[LNB]Back in the big time: Houllier[LNB]'Emile probably needs that more than the others. I saw him play on September 4 in Jamie Carragher's testimonial.[LNB]'Garry McAllister (Villa assistant manager) was also involved in that game and he said Emile has still got something about him. Trust me, I think he will do well for us.'[LNB]Houllier insisted strengthening the striking department was not a first priority on his agenda. He said: 'We have got three strikers in Agbonlahor, Carew and Emile. I don't think we have to sign another.[LNB]'If we have to sign a player now, it won't be in that area.'[LNB]Houllier is confident his side have the physical presence to match Wolves even if his side are not the biggest in terms of physical stature.[LNB]He said: 'I've seen them on the video. They are a good side. They seem to play, will be good opposition, physical as always with the English game. It will be a very competitive game.[LNB]'The Premier League has got more physical. It is not about a matter of size. You need size in some positions but is also a matter of commitment and physical commitment. We have that.'[LNB]Agbonlahor is winning his fitness battle after resuming training. He suffered two tight calves against Blackburn and was substituted during the first half.[LNB]Midfielder Stephen Ireland is also on course to play after resuming training following a dead leg.[LNB]But central defender Richard Dunne is again sidelined with a knee problem although Houllier is optimistic he can return against Tottenham next weekend.[LNB] Houllier can bring taste of past glories to Aston Villa, insists old boy HeskeySign me up! Young hands Houllier a timely boost by asking for new contractASTON VILLA FC
