Redknapp backing for Crouch

Harry Redknapp has tipped Peter Crouch to play a starring role for England at the World Cup.

The Tottenham striker improved his already excellent record at international level with two goals against Egypt in midweek.

Redknapp was delighted to see one of his players shine and is convinced Crouch will make Fabio Capello's final 23-man squad for the tournament in South Africa.

"It was great to see Crouchy come on and score his goals," the Spurs boss said on Sky Sports News.

"He took both goals really well and led the line great, but wherever he has played he has always done well.

"His record for England is fantastic and I think he will be a big player at the World Cup.

"He brings something very, very different to the team and when he plays results have been excellent."

Fantastic

Crouch only stepped off the substitutes' bench at half-time at Wembley and faces competition for a starting spot with England.

Redknapp, who has also worked with Crouch at Portsmouth and Southampton, does not think he should be regarded purely as an impact player.

"He could be England's super-sub or he could be England's super-starter. I think he is capable of both," stated Redknapp.

"He will score goals whether he starts or comes off the bench and you will always get an honest performance from Crouchy.

"He is a fantastic person as well as a terrific player and I have been fortunate enough to manage Crouchy on quite a few occasions."

Crouch's immediate concern will be breaking back into the Tottenham side after losing his place to Roman Pavlyuchenko in recent weeks.

The Russian has been scintillating of late and the pair could start together against Fulham on Saturday after Jermain Defoe added to Redknapp's injury concerns.

Redknapp added: "Pav is in great form - five goals in two and a bit games.

"But it is quite easy to pick the team at the moment because I think we have got about 12 fit players."