Official: Former England striker Emile Heskey joins the Newcastle Jets

21/09/2012 9:05:00 AM

The experienced striker joined the Jets on a one-year deal as their marquee signing and gives the club 'what they had been missing', according to coach van Egmond

By SPORTAL

Newcastle Jets have announced the signing of English striker Emile Heskey for the upcoming A-League season.

Heskey, who has spent the past 18 years playing in England for Leicester City, Liverpool, Birmingham City, Wigan Athletic and Aston Villa, has also played for his country on 62 occasions, travelling to three FIFA World Cups.

With his vast experience, Heskey, 34, is sure to have an impact on the A-League and he is looking forward to arriving in Australia.

"This is an exciting new period in my life and I am looking forward to making a special contribution to the A-League and most importantly, to the Jets," Heskey said.

"I hope I can help grow football at the grassroots level and also provide advice to young players at the Jets. The season isn't far away, so I will be in Newcastle soon, training with my new teammates and be ready for kick off on October 7."

Jets coach Gary van Egmond was delighted to have secured the signature of a player who will immediately fit into the club's system.

"Emile is someone who has unbelievable experience, having played for England 62 times," van Egmond said.

"His effectiveness in being able to hold the ball up and invite other players to play off him is going to be a big benefit to us. He's someone who can really lead the line and is exactly what we've been missing."

Newcastle CEO Robbie Middleby echoed the thoughts of van Egmond about the club's new signing.

"To secure the signature of Emile is a fantastic result for the Jets and for the A-League," Middleby said.

"Emile has played our game at the highest level in England, both internationally and domestically, and he finished last season playing with Aston Villa in the English Premier League.

"We are aware that Emile had other offers but he is genuinely excited to be a part of what we want to achieve at the Jets."

Heskey, who has won the UEFA Cup, FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Super Cup and Charity Shield during his career, is likely to make his Newcastle debut in front of the club's home fans at Hunter Stadium against Adelaide United in the first round of the 2012-13 season.

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