 Heskey plays as a forward with pace, being a powerful targetman with physical strength and is hard working. His play has been likened to "a blunt instrument with which to bludgeon defences". His main contributions to the team lie in the way he holds the ball up and draws defenders out, leaving space behind him for another player to score. He has been credited as being an unselfish player who allows other forwards to benefit. He is not a prolific goalscorer but is able to provide a significant number of assists. He has been quoted as saying "Forwards are judged on their goalscoring. But I like to think I bring a lot more to the game and I do get pleasure from assisting". He impressed the England staff with his versatility, as he can also play down the left wing. However, he has been criticised by the media for his lack of goals; lapses in his goalscoring have been described as being "hardly uncommon". In 2008 it was stated that "It is only the perception of his talents that changes" after Heskey stated he was no better or worse than before.
