Portsmouth manager Paul Hart insists fifth-choice England striker Peter Crouch has a big part to play in Pompey's survival bid.
Crouch was only selected for Wednesday's World Cup qualifier against Ukraine after injuries to Aston Villa's Emile Heskey, Tottenham's Darren Bent and West Ham's Carlton Cole.
England boss Fabio Capello even said: "He is no Heskey and he is no Bent - but he is the best we have right now."
The lanky target-man responded by scoring the opening goal in a 2-1 win at Wembley and Hart reckons he will be a key asset as Pompey continue their battle to beat the drop at Hull on Saturday.
"For me he's an excellent player and a real priority for us," said Hart.
"I can't understand all the fuss about what Capello said. His words may have been a motivational tool - but Peter doesn't need that.
"He's a consummate professional and doesn't need much motivating.
"He works so tirelessly for us that you find yourself praying he gets his goals and his rewards.
"I'm just delighted he performed so well for England where his record speaks for itself - and that he's come back to us unscathed."
Hart has been entrusted with securing Pompey's top-flight status following the managerial exits of Harry Redknapp and Tony Adams, and he has overseen two wins and two draws in his five games in charge so far.
Crouch scored both goals in the 2-1 win over Everton last time out - taking his tally to 16 for the season - and that victory lifted the South Coast side three points clear of the bottom three.
Goalkeeper David James and right-back Glen Johnson also returned from England duty unscathed, while midfielder Niko Kranjcar has reported fit following Croatia's 2-0 win over Andorra.
January signing Hayden Mullins beat the drop in West Ham's great escape two years ago and although he hailed Crouch's contribution this season, he insists he and his fellow midfielders should start easing the burden.
"Crouchy has got some massive goals for us and he's performing brilliantly for England as well," said Mullins.
"Everybody's lifted by the fact that he's come back fit but a few of those in the midfield have got to start helping him out by chipping in with a few more goals."
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