Gerard Houllier is impressed with Emile Heskey since his appointment as Aston Villa boss. Houllier believes the club will benefit from the striker's decision to quit international football with England.
Houllier signed the 32 year old when Liverpool boss from Leicester a decade ago for £11million and the forward could come into contention for Sunday's derby at Wolves.
Houllier said: "He decided to stop his international career so now it means he can repeat games for us.
"The whole England team suffered (received criticism) for what happened in South Africa.
"Sometimes things go your way, sometimes they don't, but whatever you say about Emile he is a good man and a good player.
"I read a few things about what he said when he retired and it's very sensible what he said, that his time has gone now, he's 32-33, there are some young players coming through.
"Emile will be 100 per cent Villa and as the manager I am happy."
The Frenchman has no doubt that Heskey can still be a major force for Villa.
He said: "All strikers need confidence. They need to feel they have the backing of the manager, club and the fans.
"Emile probably needs that more than the others. I saw him play on September 4 in Jamie Carragher's testimonial.
"Garry McAllister (Villa assistant manager) was also involved in that game and he said Emile has still got something about him.
"Trust me, I think he will do well for us."
