England´s Heskey retires from international action

Aston Villa striker Emile Heskey has called a halt to his spluttering England career after retiring from international duty on Thursday.

Heskey endured a frustrating time at the World Cup after being criticised for his performances in England’s first two group matches and then left out by manager Fabio Capello for the team’s last two games of the tournament.

Capello initially believed Heskey’s partnership with Wayne Rooney was key to England’s success after he impressed during England’s World Cup qualifying campaign.

But the former Liverpool star arrived at the World Cup on the back of a poor season with Villa and was well below his best in South Africa.

It was Heskey’s lack of goals for England that often saw him singled out for criticism from fans.

The 32-year-old scored just seven times in 62 appearances and has finally decided to bring an end to his England career in the aftermath of a woeful World Cup for his country, which ended with a 4-1 second round defeat against Germany.

Heskey said: “I have enjoyed every moment of my England career and worn the shirt with pride every time I have been fortunate enough to have been selected.

“I would like to thank every manager I have played under, everyone at The FA and the fans for all their support over the years.

“I wish the management team and the playing squad all the best for the future.”