Redknapp fears the big man

"He will win headers, no doubt, but what we have to do is ensure he wins them 12 to 15 yards out rather than six," said the Portsmouth boss, who was in charge at Southampton when Crouch made his move from St Marys to Anfield in the summer.

"He will certainly be a threat. I have always rated him and it was no surprise at all for me when he broke into the England squad.

"He is a good professional, a good player and a smashing person. I hope he goes to the World Cup with England and I am sure he will.

"For me, he is the perfect substitute to put on as a foil for Wayne Rooney or Michael Owen because, big as he is, he has a great touch on the floor as well."