For Peter Crouch, it was the defence mechanism that became a superpower during his playing career and ensured he did not grow up when the boots were left to gather dust.
From his early years in Tottenham's academy to more than two decades as a professional who earned 42 England caps and scored more than a century of Premier League goals, the 6ft 7in striker dealt with cruel taunts from the terraces and opponents over his appearance.
But he learnt from a young age that the best response was to strike first with a wicked sense of humour.
