The England forward met testicular cancer survivors in Liverpool to launch the Keep Your Eye On The Ball Focus Fortnight, an initiative backed by the Everyman Male Cancer Campaign, The FA and The PFA, urging men to check themselves and raise some cash for vital research into prostate and testicular cancer.

Crouch, who has joined other high-profile footballers, such as David James and Paul Robinson to back the campaign, said: “Men can be so vocal on the terraces yet struggle to talk about their own health with their mates.

"It only takes a minute to check yourself and it’s worth it, because in life you don’t get extra time.”

Testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer in 15 to 44-year-olds but if caught early, it has a 99% cure rate, making awareness of the symptoms essential.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with over 35,000 men affected in the UK every year.

Clubs and supporters across the nation are being encouraged to put information about male cancer on their websites and in their programmes to help raise awareness.

The Everyman Male Cancer Campaign is also encouraging men to log on to the Keep Your Eye On The Ball website and find out the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer.

Everyman spokesperson, Hannah Crabtree added: “Imagine a stadium the size of Anfield. Over half its capacity, 37,000 men, will be affected by male cancer every year.

"Hopefully, with world-class footballers like Peter Crouch spreading the message, more men will be aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease and catch it early.”

To find out more about the signs and symptoms of male cancer and to get involved with Keep Your Eye On The Ball, visit www.keepyoureyeontheball.org/