Emile Heskey insists he never gave up hope of earning an England recall as he relishes the prospect of resuming his partnership with Michael Owen.

Heskey could make his first appearance since the Euro 2004 finals in Portugal in Saturday's qualifier for the 2008 tournament against Israel, after being called into the squad this week by Steve McClaren.

Owen has always sung the praises of Heskey and he has scored 11 times in 12 starts alongside him - including his hat-trick in the 5-1 demolition of Germany in Munich in 2001.

And many strikers have commented on the unselfish nature of 29-year-old who has so far won 43 caps since making his debut against Hungary in 1999.

The Wigan striker said: "I wasn't expecting the call-up to be honest. I was on my way home from the game at Newcastle last weekend and I got the call.

"I was a bit surprised, but delighted as well to be back in the England squad.

"We've got a new manager in Steve McClaren, who was number two at the time I last played, and we've got a lot of younger players. But it's good. Still the quality and everything is here.

"I'd never given up hope of a recall but you know the situation with the national team. We've got so many good players coming through at the minute so he's got to pick from a lot.

"But it's good, I'm enjoying every minute of it. The lads have taken me in well again, so I'm enjoying it.

"I'm that sort of unselfish player who will try my hardest and I think a lot of people see that in me."

Heskey is delighted to be reunited with Owen, who scored a last-gasp winner for Newcastle against the Latics at St James' Park.

He said: "It's always been a joy playing alongside Michael Owen. I've played with Michael many times going back England Under-18s level.

"We kind of gelled then and it's gone on through most of my career. It's been a joy to play with him.

"He's a brilliant player, a fantastic goalscorer. If I get a chance on Saturday alongside Michael, it will be excellent."