Peter Crouch admits Tottenham missed an opportunity to pull away from Liverpool earlier in the season and now need to prove again that they have the ability to keep pace with his former club.

Rafael Benitez's men last suffered defeat in the Barclays Premier League before Christmas, and their run has taken them back into the top four. Spurs led the race among the challengers for the final Champions League place during Liverpool's slump, but they also suffered home defeats to Stoke and Wolves as well as dropping points to Hull and Everton.

"There was an opportunity earlier in the season," said England striker Crouch.

"We had a couple of draws and it was frustrating we couldn't pull away more. But I still feel we have enough ability. You look around the dressing room at the players who aren't playing and there is so much quality here. I still believe we have a real opportunity."

After three seasons at Anfield, Crouch knows how dangerous Liverpool will be now they have edged back into the top four.

"The previous seasons don't lie," Crouch said.

"They have always been in the Champions League. They had a blip at the start of the season and people said other people can get in there but if I'm honest if you want to get in the Champions League then Liverpool will be the toughest side to displace.

"We have to make sure we are in there and in a position to do that."