Crouch has high hopes of keeping Heskey on bench
PORTSMOUTH’S Peter Crouch insists he is optimistic about keeping his place in the England starting line-up, following rival Emile Heskey’s return to fitness.
Crouch marked his start against Ukraine in April with a goal but faces a battle for selection against Kazakhstan on Saturday now that Heskey, a favourite of head coach Fabio Capello, is back in contention.
“It was important for me to get a game, play well and I scored so hopefully I have given the manager something to think about,” said Crouch.
“I felt I did well enough in the last game to warrant a start. Emile is back from injury and he was first choice beforehand but hopefully I’ve given the manager some food for thought.”
England fly to Kazakhstan tomorrow for the World Cup qualifier in Almaty, and Crouch admits it is a step into the unknown.
“I can’t say I have ever been to Kazakhstan on holiday,” he added. “None of the lads have played against teams from there so it’s exciting. I don’t know what the pitch is like, or the conditions.”
Manchester United centre-back Rio Ferdinand and Chelsea left-back Ashley Cole both missed training yesterday with minor injuries. However, the move is thought to be a precaution and neither is expected to miss the game against Kazakhstan or the visit of Andorra next week.