The 25-year-old joined Liverpool from Southampton for £7million in July 2005 and won over the Scouse fans after a barren start. Perhaps the funniest quote at the time came from TV pundit Jimmy Hill, who is obviously at the end of his career, when he said: "Crouch is the best striker in this country who doesn't score goals". Which is like saying Posh Spice is the best singer in the country ... for someone who cannot sing.
The newspaper claims boss Rafa Benitez "wants to keep his strike-force intact to maintain their challenge in the Champions League this season". Which goes without saying. So of the 583 players linked with Newcastle this week ... Crouch is certainly a none starter.