Source: Daily_Mail
Martin O'Neill insists: I did not force Emile Heskey to stop playing for England
Martin O'Neill insists he put no pressure on Aston Villa striker Emile Heskey to end his England career.[LNB]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.[LNB]Last season he struggled to hold down a regular spot at Villa, although he still made 24 starts in all competitions.[LNB] Battlling for his place: Aston Villa striker Emile Heskey[LNB]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.[LNB]'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.[LNB]'In that sense he will see that there is a benefit. But international football shouldn't really have any effect on your club form - apart from not getting a break.'[LNB]Heskey will face a battle for his place at Villa despite O'Neill not recruiting any new strikers so far this summer.[LNB]England Under-19 player Nathan Delfouneso is expected to make a bigger challenge for a spot this season.[LNB]O'Neill said: 'I don't think there will be too many players at the club who can complain about not getting chances to play.[LNB]'When you get them, you've got to grasp them. We've got Emile, John Carew, Gabriel Agbonlahor, Nathan Delfouneso and young Andreas Weimann who I think has got a chance.'[LNB] Back to the future: Premier League chief calls for radical shake-up to help EnglandFANTASY FOOTBALL: Sign up to our brilliant £40,000 game for new seasonCuellar and Young give O'Neill injury headache after mauling by BenficaPre-season friendly round-up: Heskey retirement suits Villa boss O'NeillManchester City star Barry tells Milner to make his mind up on futureASTON VILLA FC
