Newcastle Jets marquee signing Emile Heskey met his Jets teammates for the first time at training at Hunter Stadium.
Hunter Ports Newcastle Jets marquee signing Emile Heskey met his Jets teammates for the first time at training at Hunter Stadium on Friday afternoon.
The former England international joined in the team photo and did some light jogging and stretching at the start of the session.
The 34-year-old striker said he was excited to pull on a Jets jersey and run out onto Hunter Stadium for the first time.
“Obviously I-d heard of the A-League through Robbie Fowler and Bridgey (Michael Bridges) who I played with for many years in the England set-ups,” he said.
“When I heard there was interest there, it was something I had to look at.
“Once they came over to England, which I know now is a long way, and they spoke to me, it was actually something I got quite excited about and something I had to do.”
Heskey said winning some silverware with the Jets was high on his list of priorities while in Newcastle.
“I-ve never set myself goals or anything like that, so I just want to do well and hopefully win some trophies,” he said.
“I-ve managed to do that throughout my career, from the beginning until now, so hopefully we can keep that going.”
As one of the more seasoned professionals in the Jets squad, Heskey said he hoped to be a mentor to the Club-s younger players and a leader of the forward line.
“I hope to bring a bit of experience,” he said.
“They say they like to play with a number 9 and I-m a typical number 9 so hopefully I-ll be able to help along the way.”
There is just over a week remaining before the Jets kick-off their season against Adelaide United at Hunter Stadium next Sunday.
Heskey said a decision on whether he will play in the opening game will be made in conjunction with the coaching staff closer to the match.
“It-s a bit early to say. I-ve met the manager and the great bunch of people he-s got around him, so we-ll take it day by day and see how it progresses,” he said.
“Obviously I haven-t done a pre-season as such, but I-ve been training with Wigan Athletic and putting myself up against them, so I haven-t done a pre-season as such, but we-ll see how it goes.”
It was a warm day in Newcastle, but Heskey said he wasn-t bothered by the prospect of playing football during the hot Australian summer.
“I-m sure I-ll get used to it,” he said.
“I spoke to Robbie (Fowler) about everything and he said where he was, it was actually hotter and more humid and he actually got used to it very quickly. Hopefully I can do that as well.”
Heskey-s arrival coincided with the Jets- Membership number skyrocketing to 9,902.
Heskey’s first training session for Members and supporters to attend will be on Tuesday afternoon at Ray Watt Oval. The session will commence at approximately 4.30pm. The Jets also train on Wednesday morning, and Members and fans can attend that session at Ray Watt Oval also, from 10am.
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.
Emile Heskey fan tribute courtesy of 1233ABC Newcastle.
