Heskey decision was his alone - O'Neill

04 August 2010 09:00
Martin O'Neill insists he put no pressure on Aston Villa striker Emile Heskey to end his England career. But the Villa boss believes Heskey, 32, will reap the benefits of having the international breaks to rest up following his decision to quit England after a disappointing World Cup campaign in South Africa. Last season he struggled to hold down a regular spot at Villa, although he still made 24 starts in all competitions. O'Neill said: "No-one at the football club forced Emile to retire from international football. "That was a decision he made all on his own. He feels now that international football is something he can do without. "There are weeks when you've got the international breaks that you can rest. In that sense he will see that there is a benefit."

Source: PA