Former Red Emile Heskey looking for TPL adventure
Former Liverpool and England striker Emil Heskey is eyeing the Thai Premier League after leaving A-League outfit Newcastle Jets.
Currently honeymooning with his wife on Koh Phagan, the 36-year-old Heskey is looking for a new soccer adventure after his two-year stay with the Australian side came to an end. He told Thai reporters that the country’s top-flight league was a likely destination for the twilight of his career, which has spanned two decades.
“I’m quite interested in playing in the TPL. I’ve heard of the league and it has grown in popularity.
“After playing two seasons for Newcastle in Australia, I’m now out of contract. I know that other English players have plied their trade in the country, such as [Jay] Simpson and [Jay] Bothroyd. That has helped elevate the standard, because there are now a lot of good players in the league.
“Before opting for a Thai team to play for, I’ll look at the readiness of each club. But I’ve had no contact from any club so far,” said Heskey, capped 62 times for England.
Local media reported that PTT Rayong coached by former England striker Peter Withe were one of the suitors for Heskey’s signature after TPL newcomers have endured a miserable campaign in their first season at the top tier, currently lying third from bottom in the 20-team league.
Poyet ends speculation
Sunderland manager Gus Poyet ended speculation over his future by signing a new deal which will keep him at the Stadium of Light until 2016. Poyet guided Sunderland to Premier League survival this season but was being mooted as a possible replacement for Mauricio Pochettino at Southampton after the Argentine joined Spurs.
However, despite odds on Poyet’s departure being slashed over recent days, Sunderland chairman Ellis Short managed to tie down the former Brighton manager, who led his side to the League Cup final as well as steering them to Premier League safety.
In a statement, Poyet expressed his joy at having signed a new contract.
“I am delighted to extend my stay with Sunderland AFC after an unbelievable season and our famous great escape.
“Now it’s a different challenge for me and the club and I am relishing the next stage with Sunderland.”
