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Emile Heskey will not be scoring for a new club very soon after Aston Villa decided to release the bumbling striker from his contract at Villa Park.

The departure of the former England striker – who has been the butt of more jokes in football than perhaps anyone else – was confirmed by the club this morning, while reserve goalkeeper Brad Guzan, defender Carlos Cuellar and a host of Academy Players have also been released.

Heskey spent three years at Villa, where he had a fairly abysmal record of nine goals in 90 games, including an incredibly prolific one goal in 26 league appearances last season.

In fairness to Heskey, his game was never just about goalscoring, but even the tribute on Villa’s official website didn’t exactly speak volumes for his contribution at the club.

“He was a man mountain in keeping possession up top when Villa attacked, he scored a fair few goals and he was also a big voice in the dressing room too,” read a statement on the Villa website.

A glowing reference indeed.

The ballboys at Villa Park are no doubt delighted that they will no longer have to chase his wayward efforts on goal, but despite his clumsy gait, his questionable first touch and his often complete inability to hit the back of the net, he will probably attract interest from clubs like Stoke City, who love a big man up front.

If any potential suitors need convincing of what he can bring to the table, all Heskey needs to do is show them this highlight reel below and the offers will come flooding in. Maybe.