Redknapp makes case for Crouch

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp cannot understand why Peter Crouch is not currently part of Fabio Capello’s England plans.

The 28-year-old was overlooked by the Italian for the recent draw with Holland despite boasting an impressive record of 16 goals in 34 appearances for the national side.

Crouch, who moved to White Hart Lane from Portsmouth earlier in the summer, marked his first start for the club with a goal and a fine all-round performance as Spurs brushed past Doncaster 5-1 in the second round of the Carling Cup last night.

But, although Redknapp has opted to pair Jermain Defoe and Robbie Keane in all three Premier League games so far this season, he does not feel that should hinder Crouch’s chances of regaining his place in Capello’s squad ahead of the forthcoming internationals against Slovenia and Croatia.

“He got left out (of the England squad) before I picked the first team,” Redknapp said. “It wasn’t as if he got left out by Tottenham and then by England. But it’s up to the manager and Carlton Cole has burst on the scene a bit as well.

“For me, personally, I would always have a Crouchy in my squad because he gives you something completely different to anybody else, even if he’s on the bench. He’s a player that can come on if games are tight.”