Heskey celebrates his goal against Denmark.

By Mark Bradley, PA Sport Chief Soccer Writer, Japan

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Emile Heskey declared that England had proved their potential for the future as he insisted there was no shame in losing to the "best team in the world".

Heskey shared the nation's frustration in England's quarter-final defeat by Brazil but maintains that the team can still look back with pride on the tournament.

Indeed, having scored against Denmark, he insists that he has realised one personal dream even if the team's aims did not come to fruition.

Heskey declared: "Sometimes you have to pinch yourself. As a child, you want to be playing in World Cups after watching them on television. To say that I've scored in one is a dream come true.

"We've come really far in this tournament. We can't get our heads down. We have to look forward to the next tournament and take our experience into that.

"We have really gelled together and played very well. At times, it's been brilliant. There are still other young players to come in, so it's very good for the future.

"We have shown that we can put ourselves up against the best teams and really trouble them.

"I think everyone is very disappointed that we're going out but you have to look at the teams we've played against and come through against."

Heskey revealed that England wilted in the afternoon heat of Shizuoka as they were left to chase the ball against a Brazilian team who were far better at keeping possession.

"You have to give them credit. They are the best team in the world but we definitely weren't scared of them," he added.

"We went at them. That's their game, they keep the ball well. It was very tiring out there and very hot. Everyone gave their all but it just wasn't enough."