EDWIN van der Sar has given an insight into how tough life is for goalkeepers in England.

At 37, Manchester United's Dutchman has the bruises to prove it after years perfecting his craft.

Van der Sar said: In England you get bullied at corners a lot.

Forwards try to bang into you or stop you from going to get the ball.

You have to protect yourself and use your whole body. You also need to learn when to go for the ball and when to stay.'' Van der Sar broke his nose in an accidental clash with Tottenham striker Robbie Keane last year - and the two men are set to face each other again on Sunday at Old Trafford in the fourth round of the FA Cup.

Spurs arrive in buoyant mood after reaching the Carling Cup final in midweek when they routed Arsenal 6-2 on aggregate.

Van der Sar will have done his homework, however.

You need a lot of information and we watch DVDs to help us prepare,'' he said.

You need to learn whether a player is left or right footed, what does he do in a one-on-one situation - stand me up or go around me?''