"Peter needed Liverpool to buy him to give him the credibility," said the former England coach.
"The poor lad has had the the mickey taken out of him because of his height for years. He never gets stick over his football, it's all because of his size and build. He's not the best header of a ball because he never has to jump.
"But he's unplayable if he jumps in front of you. Peter can get flick-ons and that's why Michael Owen needs him.
"If World Cup defenders are not careful they will give away free-kicks against Peter. And with one of the best dead ball players in the business in David Beckham, it could prove one of the most effective weapons in Germany.
"It gives me a great deal of pride to see Crouchy doing so well. He has taken time out to thank me. I saw Liverpool play at Villa last season and he took time out to come and see me.
"In an age when players have reputations for being selfish, he stands out from the crowd."
