Former Villa striker Peter Crouch has warned England pal Emile Heskey not to expect any favours on his claret and blue debut at Portsmouth.

The £3.5million arrival is set to make his Villa bow at Fratton Park, as Martin O’Neill’s men aim to make it a club record six straight away wins in one season.

Victory for Villa would guarantee they end the evening third and – should Albion beat Manchester United – they would pull level on points with the leaders and Liverpool.

Pompey striker Crouch has backed Heskey to help inspire Villa to a top-four finish, but not before putting a dent in their Champions League hopes this evening.

Crouch said: “I certainly think Emile Heskey will help keep them in the top four. There is a lot of competition, but if any other team can do it this season, I think it will be Villa.

“I think he will strengthen things. I’ve played for England with him and he’s a fantastic player. But it’s not just him we have to worry about. They’ve got so much pace. Gabby Agbonlahor has been fantastic and one of my big mates Gareth Barry is also doing well.

“They are a fantastic side and we will need to be at  the top of our game if we want to beat them.”