Crouch seals Pompey return
11 Jul 2008 - 13:56:12
England international Peter Crouch has returned to Portsmouth for a second spell after completing his transfer from Liverpool to Fratton Park.
The 27-year-old spent one season with Pompey six years ago, before moving on to Aston Villa, Southampton and then the Reds in 2005.
He has penned a four-year contract with Harry Redknapp's side after sealing a transfer that could eventually rise to £11million and is excited about starting a new chapter in his career.
"It's fantastic to be back. I believe Harry gets the best out of me and think the best years of my career can be here," said the striker.
Crouch scored 42 goals in 135 games during his time on Merseyside despite struggling to hold down a starting place in manager Rafael Benitez's plans.
"Crouch is a terrific player, top class," said Redknapp. "Bringing a player like Peter here shows how far we have come and how far we can go. I'm delighted he's back.
"I never expected to see him back here. He went off to Liverpool and did a fantastic job in my opinion and I'm looking forward to seeing him and Jermain Defoe up front - a big one and a little one - and we've got other good forwards here."
Veteran Pompey goalkeeper David James is looking forward to teaming up with his England colleague, saying: "I have to say, as soon as I heard about Crouchie coming here I was quite excited. I like him. I think it's top drawer.
"What we have with him is the dynamic - a player who offers us something on both fronts. He's a complete striker if you like.
"This is a player who scores goals yet can also keep the ball in play and be a target man. He has those talents which so many other strikers lack.
"He will be a perfect foil to Jermain Defoe in one respect and in another an ideal target man. What he gives us is immense."
