Fifa World Cup news: Pick Crouch over Cole or Heskey, says Cascarino

03/03/2010

Tony Cascarino has insisted that Peter Crouch should be ahead of Carlton Cole and Emile Heskey in Fabio Capello's Fifa World Cup plans.

In an article for footballpools.com, the former Republic of Ireland forward said that Crouch's international pedigree puts him ahead of many of his rivals for a place in the England football squad.

While the pundit accepted that Wayne Rooney and Jermain Defoe are almost certain to make the Fifa World Cup - injuries permitting - he said Crouch should be next in line travel to South Africa.

The Tottenham striker has an impressive record for England, scoring 18 times in 36 appearances - far more prolific than Heskey's return of seven goals in 57 games.

And Cole has so far failed to score in six matches for the Three Lions.

"Peter Crouch would be my choice," Cascarino wrote. "In fact, I would pick him every day of the week."

Crouch was a part of England's 2006 Fifa World Cup party, scoring in the 2-0 victory over Trinidad and Tobago in the group stage of the tournament.

Posted by Ted Walker