Reassurances from Rafa calmed Crouch's fears
Striker Peter Crouch insists he was unconcerned about rumours regarding his Anfield future once Rafael Benitez had reassured him he was still very much part of his Liverpool plans.
With three new forwards arriving at the club over the summer, the perennial speculation over the lanky frontman's stay on Merseyside circulated once more, with clubs as diverse as Newcastle and Juventus touted as potential destinations for the 26-year-old.
But Crouch revealed a chat with Benitez soon allayed any fears he was heading for the exit door.
'It's the same as last year, when new strikers come in you automatically think one's going to make way,' he said.
'But the manager's told me I'm in his plans and hopefully I'll play some part this year in the success of the club.
'Every year I've been here there's always competition for places, it's difficult at a club like Liverpool.
'We've added strikers this season so it'll be difficult to get in the team, but when you play you have to do your best to impress.'
ESPN