By Paul Brown

Emile Heskey has revealed his delight at rewarding Villa Park's "tremendous" support with a first home goal - and then quickly promised more of the same.

Heskey opened the scoring against West Ham - slotting low past Rob Green from a James Milner cross.

The England man was thrilled to score after been thoroughly impressed with the noise levels of the claret and blue army.

He said: "It was a great moment [to score my first Villa Park goal].

"It was so important to score and open my home account in front of my own fans. They have been brilliant with me.

"They have been supportive and always cheer my name before games.

"That's great for my confidence and it was definitely nice to repay their support with a goal. I hope that's not the last before the end of the season."