Heskey released by Aston Villa

Emile Heskey, Brad Guzan and Carlos Cuellar have been released by Aston Villa after the club decided not to renew their contracts.

Despite being without a manager, Villa have released the three senior players alongside several academy prospects.

Former England international Heskey, 34, arrived at the Midlands club from Wigan in 2009 in a deal worth just over three million pounds.

The target man enjoyed a good start to his Villa career, scoring on his debut at Fratton Park against Portsmouth, but has enjoyed little success in front of goal since.

Guzan has been restricted to second choice at Villa Park since his arrival in 2008 due to the excellence of former goalkeeper Brad Friedel and current number one Shay Given.

American Guzan, 27, was a firm fan favourite with the Villa faithful, thanks to his penalty heroics in cup competitions.

His best moment in Villa colours came during their pre-season tour of Spain in 2009, when Martin O’Neill’s side won the Peace Cup, defeating Juventus in the final thanks to two Guzan penalty saves.

Cuellar had also proved popular since his move from Rangers in 2007.

The central defender often filled in across the back four, endearing himself to the fans with his versatile displays.