Expert Blogs

He has spent an entire career being abused and criticized. We can all think of a reason or two why Emile Heskey should be on the beach and not in South Africa. The fact he is preparing for his second FIFA World Cup, eight years after his first, is a testament to his durability.

It also proves Heskey has something coaches like. He's never been a prolific goal scorer so it can't be that. He's not the most mobile or speediest striker the world has ever produced. Despite his shortcomings, however, Heskey continues to win the approval of England managers.

Heskey's international career is not one that can be appreciated by statistics. If it were, coach Fabio Capello would surely have chosen a different option. Seven goals in 58 appearances are a meagre return and not the goal-per-game ratio worthy of a place in England's World Cup squad.

His club stats are no more impressive. Five goals in 18 months at Aston Villa pale in comparison to the scoring exploits of Darren Bent, Carlton Cole and his own Villa teammate Gabby Agbonlahor. On the face of it, any of his younger compatriots boast more impressive resumes.

Capello has certainly not taken Heskey out of loyalty. The Italian tactician laid out the crystal clear ground rules from day one of his tenure. Playing regularly and playing well were then, and remain, the minimum requirements. It could be argued Heskey has done neither.

But Heskey brings England something few others can. He's an old fashioned centre-forward and, as such, is the perfect foil for his strike partner. He is strong as an ox, he's a great target man, and he's vastly experienced at this level.

Capello won't care a fig if Heskey doesn't score at the World Cup. It is what he does for others that has stamped his ticket. He holds the ball up well, he's good in the air and he battles for every scrap. Someone has to do the dirty work and Heskey is a willing volunteer.

In a nutshell, it is his selflessness that endears him to coaches. Capello knows strikers work better in pairs but they need to complement one another. He hopes those selected will perform as specific dynamic duos.

Heskey has been picked to work with, and for, Wayne Rooney. Tottenham teammates Peter Crouch and Jermain Defoe will, if needed, be asked to do for England what they did for Spurs last season.

That is not to say there is no room for manoeuvre. While I expect Heskey to team up with Rooney, there is nothing to prevent him from linking up with Defoe in a similar fashion. The younger quicker men can dart and use Heskey as a rock and a decoy from which to launch attempts on goal. 

Heskey's role is well defined. He will be England's unsung hero, allowing others to grab the glory for the common good. Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard can spearhead the cavalry charge, but possession must be retained until they get there in support.

At the age of 32, Heskey is participating in his last major tournament. His 15-year career has brought him fame and fortune but none of the game's major prizes. His longevity, though, has afforded him a mental strength to balance his physique.

When you're living, and working, in a goldfish bowl, the ability to shrug off criticism and focus on the job at hand is crucial. Emile Heskey will never be world class, but on the world stage he's an important member of the supporting cast.