HARRY REDKNAPP persuaded Peter Crouch to rejoin him at Portsmouth then roared: Ive got my Dream Team strike force.

The Liverpool hitman, 27, will complete his £11million return to the South Coast today after undergoing a medical at Fratton Park.

Redknapp, who has managed Crouch twice before at Pompey and Southampton, cannot wait to pair 6ft 7in Crouch with his 5ft 7in England pal Jermain Defoe.

Portsmouth boss Redknapp explained: Ive always said I wanted four or five strikers to choose from. We didnt have that last year.

Crouchie is a quality player and will be a fantastic signing. Hes a good lad as well.

Peter and Jermain together can be exciting.

Redknapp insists he still wants David Nugent to stay despite Crouchs arrival.

Nugent failed to score a Premier League goal in 15 appearances for Pompey following his £6m transfer from Preston 12 months ago. Redknapp added: I dont want any of them to leave now. Im not looking to sign any more strikers.

I would like to keep Nuge if possible. Ill need all of my hitmen.

If you are competing in the UEFA Cup, there are a lot of matches. We need strength in depth and these players give that.

Its up to Nuge now Im looking for him to push on. If he gets the opportunity, its up to him to take it.

''He needs to come good and show what he can do.

The first year was a big step up for him but he knows whats expected now. Hes got the ability to do it no doubt about that.