Crouch thanks Rafa

Crouch is going to the World Cup with England at the end of his first season with Liverpool, a season that also saw the striker pick up the first winners medal of his career when he lifted the FA Cup. Crouch says his impressive season was down to the words of advice he was given by Rafael Benitez.

"I believe I go into games wholeheartedly. But Rafa felt at the time that I wasn't doing enough," said the England international.

"But I've definitely developed that part of my game. I'm a lot more aggressive when I play than I was and you have to be.

"When you go into big games you've got to put yourself about, especially given the size I am.

"But I feel really at home now in the England set-up. I think it shows on the pitch too."