Emile Heskey

Once again Emile Heskey's contribution to the cause could be measured by his tireless work in linking play and setting up his fellow forwards - rather than his goalscoring exploits.

The England international did manage to bag five goals, including against Blackburn in the 6-4 League Cup win and against Burnley in the 5-2 Barclays Premier League win.

But his most important was probably the clinical finish he produced against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light - a strike which kept Villa within touching distance in the top four race.

But it was no surprise that Gabby Agbonlahor bagged his highest-ever goal tally, with Heskey playing the role of provider on countless occasions.

On the international front, Heskey was a mainstay of England's qualification for the World Cup and was man of the match in the opening game against USA in the South African showpiece.

But ultimately it was a disappointing tournament for the Three Lions as they went out in the second round.

Signed from Wigan Athletic towards the end of the January 2009 transfer window, the much-travelled striker made his debut against Portsmouth at Fratton Park a few nights later - and hit the only goal of the game.

He was also on target in the 1-1 draw against West Ham later in the season, as well as hitting the post with another effort in the same match.

Heskey helped the Foxes to League Cup glory in 1997 and 2000 before making an £11m move to Liverpool.

He scored 23 goals in his first full season at Anfield, helping the Reds to a league, FA Cup and UEFA Cup treble.

He then spent two seasons with Birmingham City before joining Wigan in 2006.