Newcastle United striker Michael Owen was happy to be playing again with Wigan's Emile Heskey for England in Saturday's victory over Israel.

Owen said: "We know each other like the back of your hand. We weren't worried about whether we would click going into the game. You know what you are going to get from Emile.

"He can be a real weapon in certain games and played really well. The crowd told you that. We know each other's game inside out. He got a great ovation. I am really pleased for him.

"There is strong competition for places but he has played well for England before. I don't think anyone is surprised in the least with his contribution.

"I have played with him for many a year and in some of those games when at Liverpool, he could be unplayable when he was playing well.

"You know what you are going to get. He gives you a different option. When you are struggling, you can dink the ball up to him and he is so big and strong that he can hold people off."