You are in > manchester.com  > News > Bruce ready to fight to keep Heskey

General Sport

Bruce ready to fight to keep Heskey

04/12/2008

Wigan manager Steve Bruce has warned clubs interested in Emile Heskey that he is ready to fight to keep his star striker.

The England international is out of contract in the summer and can leave on a free transfer. This has led to speculation that Wigan may be ready to cash-in on the striker in the January transfer window.

Wigan chairman Dave Whelan hinted last week that Heskey could leave in the January transfer window, but Bruce was adamant only an "outrageous" offer would see him sell Heskey.

"Emile is in his right, but we have right to say 'no'," said Bruce. "We still have three or four months to go until the end of the season. It might cost us £4-£5million, but we have to weigh that up against the £30 million we get next summer [if the club stays in the Premier League].

"I have not given up hope I can keep Emile here. The chairman has backed me 100 per cent on every decision I have made and I would expect him to do exactly the same thing in this situation.

"It has got to be an outrageous offer for me to even consider going to the chairman. Where do we find a replacement when we could be in a bit of a relegation battle?

"Even if we did get a big offer we would have to think if it was the right thing for the club. Obviously the prize is we stay in this division."

Heskey has managed to rebuild his career since moving to the JJB Stadium in 2006. His excellent form for the club has seen him recalled to the England squad by Fabio Capello. The likes of Aston Villa, Tottenham and his former club Liverpool have been linked with making a bid for Heskey.