Ray Baartz believes former England international Emile Heskey can be a consistent goal scorer in the A-League this season.
Newcastle Jets advisory board Chairman Ray Baartz knows a thing or two about scoring goals and that-s exactly what he believes former England international Emile Heskey will do during his first season in the A-League.
Baartz found the back of the net 211 times in 236 Club appearances for Sydney Hakoah and also scored 18 goals for Australia and he is adamant that new Jets signing Emile Heskey can also be a consistent goal scorer in the A-League.
“I think he-s going to score a lot more goals than people give him credit for. It-s obviously a lot more difficult to score in the Premier League than what it is in the A-League,” Baartz said.
“It-s a massive signing for us to have a player straight from the Premier League at the Club.
“With his experience and ability, he-ll be outstanding. Not only what he-s going to contribute, but I think the other players are going to benefit enormously.”
Baartz also pointed to Heskey-s capacity to provide goal-scoring opportunities for his teammates as one of his biggest strengths.
“If you look at his record over the years, everyone that has played with him has really flourished,” Baartz explained.
“Guys like Michael Owen and Robbie Fowler all get the benefit of what he takes into a game. He attracts defenders, he holds the ball up and brings other players into play.
“I think Ryan Griffiths will really benefit from having someone like Heskey here, and Ruben Zadkovich coming from midfield will have a lot more opportunities to have shots on goal.
“The team in general is going to become a much better team because of him.”
The Jets already have the most affordable Membership packages in the A-League, but Baartz believes they are even more affordable now that supporters can watch a player of Heskey-s calibre and experience for as little as $115 for Adults, $240 for a Family and $60 for Juniors.
“It makes our Membership packages even more of a bargain than what they already were, to be giving Members and supporters the chance to watch a player of Emile-s quality for that price,” he said.
Heskey merchandise is available both ONLINE and at the Hunter Sports Superstore at 294 Turton Road, New Lambton. Stock has not sold out.
To be a part of all the action this season, CLICK HERE to join as a Member. Alternatively, CLICK HERE to buy a ticket to the Jets opening game, and Heskey’s first game, at Hunter Stadium.
