Owen hits back at Heskey critics

Heskey has once again incurred the wrath of the media after a performance in which he set up both goals. Whilst criticism of the 25-year-old is often justified, this latest torrent of abuse seems to be a further example of the vindictive nature of the press.

Michael Owen, who headed home his 20th England goal from a Heskey cross, believes that Heskey has been treated unfairly by the media in recent days.

Owen said: "I thought Emile did really well - he had the main hand in both goals.

"He set up mine and won the free-kick for the second goal and at this level winning free-kicks is an art. Certainly he put himself about and as a striker you've got to score or create goals, and Emile did that. I think a lot of the criticism is a bit unfair."