I still think it is a big cover up, but I'd suggest that it would probably have been Phillips that would have been dropped. He is the only striker (except Cole) not to feature in the warm up games (except 6 minutes V Brazil).
I think most English fans are glad that Cole missed out (except the obvious Man U fans) as he is the least clinical striker of the main strikers. Heskey was taken as he offers a different option with his power and pace and immense strength.