Day 2 – Ode to Crouch

 

Whilst I agree that there needs to be some major England shake-ups at the end of the week, tonight I would like to state my case for why at least one of the established squad should retain his place in the England set up. Whilst Michael Owen and Wayne Rooney are shoe-ins for the next squad, anyone with a left testicle would agree that Peter Crouch is just as crucial a member of the frontline, and I would wager his place is far less secure.

Peter Crouch is an awkward and effective player who lulls the opposition into a false sense of security with his apparent newborn-elk-like movements, and as we all know will win any header that he wants to. Yes, he fouls every time he tries to jump, but most of the time he doesn’t need to. He offers a unique threat, and defenders don’t like playing against him. He also happens to be a great finisher, and has a fantastic international scoring record (14 in 24) which any world-class striker would be proud of. Critics would say these goals were scored against weaker nations. Like Croatia you mean? The fact is, the amount of goals against smaller nations is exactly why Crouchy should be in the squad. Goals against these countries is kind of how you qualify for tournaments…

We bemoan the lack of quality forwards in this country, but there are others waiting in the wings. Many are tipping Reading’s Dave Kitson to be included. Granted, a very good player, but international standard? Since Fabio Capello took charge of England earlier this month, Peter Crouch has scored 3 goals playing in only a bitpart role for Liverpool, Dave Kitson has scored none having played every game for Reading in the same period. Who’s the form striker now?

Coincidentally, Peter Crouch turns 27 tommorow (Jan 30), so Happy Birthday Peter.