Emile Heskey revels in new role ahead of Leicester’s clash with Man City

EMILE HESKEY says he is loving the “family” vibe of being back at Leicester.

And the Foxes icon paid tribute to the club this week after sharing his delight at becoming their first women’s football ambassador.

The former Liverpool star said: “I represented a lot of clubs but I always gravitated back to Leicester.

“I was born and raised here, I played here and when I left to play for other clubs, they never really had the same feeling in terms of a family environment.

“We did everything together and you saw that with the men’s team — and you are seeing that with the women, too.

“About 15 years ago, my friend was a coach and asked me to talk to the women’s team. I gave a speech and fast forward to now and I’m back.”

Heskey, 42, enjoyed a stellar 18-year career in the Premier League making 516 appearances including 124 at Leicester.

“Women’s football has always been there, but it hasn’t really been pushed

Emile Heskey

The former Anfield frontman, who played in this year's Soccer Aid alongside ex-Arsenal ace Kelly Smith, says he has been a long-term admirer of the women’s game.

And while the Leicester-born forward praised Ian Wright for encouraging more fans to follow the sport, he believes Smith and figures like Brighton boss Hope Powell, should get more recognition.

Heskey added: “Women’s football has always been there, but it hasn’t really been pushed.

‘’I remember Doncaster Belles and I played in Soccer Aid with Kelly Smith and you realise how good they actually are.

“It’s great to have Ian Wright and myself helping, but there are a lot of people who have done far more than we have.

“Hope Powell is one of the reasons I started watching the national team.”

In his new role, the 62-cap Three Lions striker, 43, will offer coaching advice to the Foxes’ women’s squad as well as mentoring their players.

Leicester, second in the Championship, face WSL juggernauts Manchester City in the Women’s FA Cup quarter-finals on Sunday.