Rafa backs Crouch

Last updated : 02 May 2006 By Al Campbell
With Wayne Rooney unlikely to be fit for the World Cup next month Rafa Benitez has backed Peter Crouch to fill in for the Manchester United striker after impressing in his debut season with Liverpool.

"I think Crouch is a very good player. What we must remember is how he dealt with things when he went all those games without scoring a goal," said the Liverpool boss.
 
"People were talking and talking but he continued working hard and playing well and he has scored 12 goals this season. He has enough quality and experience for England.
 
"He has the temperament and he can handle the responsibility. He has confidence in himself."