Source: Daily_Mail
WORLD CUP 2010: Emile Heskey can be England hero, says John Carew
John Carew has backed Aston Villa team-mate Emile Heskey to silence his doubters at the World Cup.[LNB] Heskey's lack of starts at Villa Park has raised questions as to whether he should be handed a place in Fabio Capello's XI when England head to South Africa. [LNB]Star striker Wayne Rooney will be the first name on the teamsheet if the Manchester United striker is fit and Carew believes Heskey's unselfish style makes him the perfect partner.[LNB] National service: Heskey (left) works hard for his team-mates on England duty[LNB]'You know what Emile's about, how much he means to the team and how much he means for the other striker,' Carew told Villa's website. [LNB]'In the role he plays for the team, he is fantastic - holding up the ball, supporting the second striker, creating the space.[LNB] 'He will do so much for you as a striker, it is amazing. I know he gets some criticism every now and again but I just think that is not fair because of the role he is playing.[LNB] 'He is one of the strongest there in his role. That is why he is also playing so many games for the national team - because they know he is important.[LNB] [LNB]Great expectations: Carew expects Heskey to hit the heights in South Africa[LNB]'In the few games I have played with him I have noticed his presence around when he is playing. Gabby (Agbonlahor) has been enjoying it and I've been enjoying it as well.[LNB] 'Together with another striker he can be very, very important and Fabio Capello knows that.' [LNB]Heskey has scored just seven goals in 57 appearances for his country since making his debut in 1999.[LNB]But Carew added: 'With his role on the pitch he will still make the team score goals and he will create big chances for the other striker. [LNB]'That is what the trainer and the manager see in the player as well, because he creates so much for the rest of the team. [LNB]'He lifts the team, he holds the ball and he creates so many chances for the players around. [LNB]'So with him around, the second striker will probably score more goals and one or two of the midfielders will score more goals. He is a very, very important player.' [LNB] King of middle England? Ledley's in the frame for holding role at World CupMartin Keown on Fabio Capello's game of three centre halvesPearce hails qualities of England boss Capello as squad prepare for finalsComplete lowdown on all 32 squads in the frame for South AfricaSportsmail's complete fixture guide to the World Cup finals in South AfricaASTON VILLA FC
