Rafa refuses Crouch rumours...again

Crouch had been seen to throw a coat in the air following his subsitution at Ewood Park on Boxing Day, unable to hide his disappointment and frustration at the change. It had been the player's first start in a month.

But Rafa said he was happy with PC's form, though admitting the need for a goal.

Rafa said, "He had three clear headers. It could be bad luck because the goalkeeper made the right decision. But if you are at a club where other strikers are scoring and playing well, that is something you need to manage when you get a chance."

"We knew they would be physical which is why I felt we needed a striker like Crouch. He has been playing well, but the only thing missing has been the finish. If a striker scores more goals, he will have more confidence. But there are no plans to sell him. I am happy with him here," Rafa concluded.