Crouch played well for Liverpool again and set up Djibril Cisse for the Reds' equaliser last night, earning the praise of his manager.
Benitez said: "Crouch is clever and he showed he can fit into this side quickly. He is an intelligent player and that is the most important thing for me.
"It was difficult for him on his debut because they crowded his space, but he worked very hard and put in the effort and got his reward.
"I was pleased with him in his first game and I know he will get better."
