HE experienced a rather inauspicious incident there, in the early days of his professional career.

But it seems as though former Spurs and England striker Peter Crouch has fond memories of playing at Colchester United's former Layer Road ground.

Crouch's third game of a successful playing career came at the U's old home, back in August, 2000.

He was part of a QPR side that won 1-0 in a League Cup tie, thanks to a winning goal from former Ipswich Town striker Chris Kiwomya.

During his side's win, Crouch tumbled into a wall that surrounded the pitch at the U's old ground.

But in response to reader Tim Davies' email in his 'Ask Crouchie!' feature in the Daily Mail, the ex-Liverpool striker, who was capped 42 times for England, says that did not affect his enjoyment of playing at the now-defunct stadium.

Crouch, who retired from playing last July at the age of 38, told the Daily Mail: "I don't recall the specific incident, Tim, but I remember Colchester's Layer Road really well.

"You might have thought it was dangerous but I loved playing there.

"I enjoyed the small venues, like Layer Road, Griffin Park and Craven Cottage, where you are so close to the stands. Proper football."