Heskey excited to link up with Bridges

Heskey came up against the former Leeds forward Bridges regularly when both were playing in the English Premier League.

And Heskey said he can't wait to be paired up in the forward pack with his friend and former Under-18 England team-mate Bridges.

"It is great to play with Bridgey again after so many years. I played with him in the under 18s as well," Heskey said on arrival at Hunter Stadium.

Bridges was instrumental in signing Heskey and was at Sydney Airport early on Friday morning, with Jets chief executive Robbie Middleby, to collect the 34-year-old import and his family.

The rest of the Jets and coach Gary van Egmond were waiting at the stadium.

Van Egmond said he was excited by what Heskey can bring to his youthful side.

"We have been looking for someone who will be able to lead the line. He is an out and out No.9," he said.

"Our challenge will be to make sure we don't push him too hard too early.

"We were definitely looking to get that No.9 with the characteristics that Emile has.

"He fits the bill on the football field and he fits the bill off the football field."

Van Egmond was not giving too much away in regards to his plans for Heskey's A-League debut against Adelaide United next weekend.

"Is it going to be best to bring him off the bench or start him? I don't know. We will know more about that closer to the game," he said.

Heskey, who joins Newcastle after having played 28 Premier League games for Aston Villa last season, endured his first training session and said he was certain he would be able to adapt to playing in Australia's heat and humidity.

"I am sure I will get used to it very quickly. It is better than England," he said.

"I spoke to Robbie (Fowler) about everything and he said I would be able to make the adjustment."

Impressed with his new team-mates, Heskey quickly set his sights on securing silverware for the club.

"There is a lot of talent. Hopefully I can slot in and do well," he said.

"I have never set myself goals. I just want to do well and hopefully win some trophies."