Australian A-League really starting to pull in the foreign players

Does anyone else think that A-League has become a competitor with MLS for European talent looking to go abroad?

Via ESPNFC-Former England striker Emile Heskey has signed for the Newcastle Jets in Australia's A-League.

The former Aston Villa and Liverpool striker's signing was confirmed by Newcastle after the 34-year-old signed a deal for the 2012-2013 season, which begins next month.

"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."

Capped 62 times by England, Heskey scored 110 goals in 516 games in the Premier League during a 17-year career in England.

"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," Newcastle chief executive Robbie Middleby said. "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.

"Emile's relationship with former English Premier League players Michael Bridges and Robbie Fowler assisted him in understanding what the A-League has to offer."

Heskey was part of the Liverpool team which won the FA Cup, League Cup and UEFA Cup in the 2000-2001 season and appeared in two World Cups for England.

"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," Newcastle coach Gary van Egmond said. "He's someone who can really lead the line and is exactly what we've been missing."

Heskey could face another European star, Sydney FC's Alessandro Del Piero, in Sydeney's home opener next month.

Former Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack is also in talks with an Australian club, Western Sydney Wanderers, according to the Daily Telegraph.

Information from Press Association was used in this report.


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