Crouch staying put

Last updated : 01 December 2007 By Al Campbell
Newspaper speculation has continually linked Peter Crouch with a move away from Liverpool when the transfer window re-opens in January, with Aston Villa the favourites to sign the striker. However, Rafael Benitez says Crouch is not for sale.

"We do not want to sell Peter. So, there could be rumours in the press, but we are really happy with him," said the Reds boss.

"The players in a top side know sometimes they will not play every game but you can see how important Peter Crouch is for us.

"The other day he was a key player with Harry Kewell [against Porto] and we do not want to do any movement.

"We want to enjoy and see Crouchie score a lot of goals.

"Always you know Peter in every training session is a very good professional.

"He is always ready if he must play and if he is not playing he is working hard to be ready for the next time."