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David Cameron's government have rejected a petition which called for former Aston Villa and Birmingham City striker Emile Heskey to be awarded a knighthood.

The Leicester Mercury reports that football fan Daniel McCarthy launched a petition with 10 Downing Street to get the star honoured for his services to football.

The 36-year-old who scored seven times for England now plays for Australian side Newcastle Jets.

In his appeal to the Department of Culture Media and Sport, Daniel said: "Emile has changed the way the game is played, he is an experienced, well-loved and all round genius player.”

Government official rejected the idea.

At least Emile has the support of this guy...