Peter Crouch threat should ensure Stoke move upwards

The good times are rolling for Peter Crouch

Peter Crouch was heavily linked with a move away from Stoke in the transfer window but the former England striker has been in excellent form so far this campaign.

Peter Crouch seems likely to end his career at Stoke after the big striker signalled his desire to agree a new deal with the Potters

It hasn't been a vintage start for Mark Hughes' team, who have added only one league win to their shock victory at the Etihad Stadium back in August.

Keeping Crouch content should help Hughes get his team up the table.

Finally Settled Down

The 6ft 7in forward finally appears to have found somewhere to settle at the Britannia Stadium after a career spent moving around.

Crouch got through seven English clubs before arriving at Stoke in 2011 under the guidance of Tony Pulis.

35 goals and 125 appearances later, Crouch is looking to continue a happy spell at the club.

"I would like to stay here for a long time. I enjoy playing for Stoke, I'm loving it here and long may that continue," he said this week.

It's clear that Stoke are benefiting from that happiness in terms of Crouch's on-field contribution.

The 33-year-old has scored three times this season, including a crucial trademark header in the 1-0 home win over Newcastle.

Currently in 16th spot with just eight points from seven games, Stoke fans will believe Crouch can earn his new contract by continuing that kind of form.

Less Isolated

Under Pulis, Stoke gained a reputation for being something of a one dimensional, long ball team.

Whether as a result of a more refined style under Hughes or not, Crouch now feels he is getting the support needed and believes the results are starting to show.

"There's been times in the past when I've been left feeling a bit isolated up front. But I feel I'm now a better player than I was four or five years ago and hopefully I've got a few more goals left in me yet," he added.

The one thing missing so far is a regular partner.

Crouch found himself on the periphery for the opening two games of the season, but having been given his chance at the Etihad he played his part in a famous win and hasn't looked back.

The ex-England international has played alongside Marko Arnautovic, Mame Biram Diouf and Bojan Krkic at times in the past six weeks.

None of that trio have as yet managed to stake a claim for a regular berth but as he enters the twilight of his career, Crouch has arguably looked as good as ever this season.

Friends Re-United

The good times should continue to roll for Crouch.

Swansea visit the Britannia this weekend while West Ham and Burnley are the next in line for a trip to what is always a difficult venue for opposing sides.

Those are the sort of opponents that should have Crouch licking his lips with anticipation.

With a win at the home of the champions already in the ledger this season, Stoke will fear no one on their travels.

Their next three away days really ought to ignite the fire in a clearly resurgent Crouch, who will visit his old stomping grounds at St Mary's, White Hart Lane and Anfield.

We've already seen this season just how facing a former club can bring a spark to any player.

There have even been calls for England boss Roy Hodgson to consider a recall for the in-form striker but Crouch has only thing on his mind.

"I'm concentrating only on doing what I can for Stoke City and I'm really enjoying my football."

With two goals in his last three games, there's every reason to think Stoke will be enjoying their football with Crouch leading the line.

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