Friend and foe - Daws ready for Crouchy

Few players know Peter Crouch as well as Michael Dawson.

The pair have been team-mates and rivals down the years - initially playing together for England Under-21s, then facing each other in Peter’s spells at Portsmouth and Liverpool before becoming team-mates again here at Spurs between 2009-2011.

Peter moved to Stoke in August, 2011 and the pair are set to lock horns again at the Britannia Stadium with Michael back from injury.

“I’ve known Crouchy for years and he’s not just a great player, he’s a great guy off the pitch as well,” said Michael.

“I’ve played against him at Portsmouth, Liverpool and Stoke and you always know you are in for a tough game.

“It’s not just about his height and physical presence though, he’s great on the floor and can hold up the ball to bring other players into the game.

“We have to try and stop the service and make sure he doesn’t get clean headers, where he can be dangerous. We’ll be ready.”

Stoke have hit form with just two defeats in 12 in the Premier League.

“It’s a different Stoke, Mark Hughes has done a great job and they are playing some great football,” added the skipper. “We go there after a good win against Fulham and we look forward to it.

“From my point of view I’m delighted to be involved again and with three games to go, we’re all looking for a positive end to the season.”