In the squad despite an early season goal drought with Liverpool that lasted more than four months, the 6ft 7in Crouch is anxious to face Belarus at Owen's side.

"I will be doing my best and he needs his fitness," Crouch said during a tour of the new Wembley Stadium.

"Wayne is in the squad as well and we are all hoping he is fit. If he is not fit, then hopefully I can state my case, maybe with a couple of performances. That's the aim."

"Obviously there have been ups and downs in my career, probably more than most, to be honest.

"But now I'm on a big high, coming off the back of winning the FA Cup and playing for England in the World Cup.

"I've never lost belief in my ability at any stage....and the people that count believe in me."