Source: Daily_Mail
Tony Pulis lauds Peter Crouch
Stoke boss Tony Pulis admits he has been impressed by record signing Peter Crouch's humility since the England striker arrived at the club last month on transfer deadline day. [LNB]Crouch, recruited from Tottenham for ?10million, followed up his equaliser in the 1-1 Barclays Premier League draw with Manchester United on Saturday by netting another on Thursday night as the Potters came from behind to beat Besiktas 2-1 in the Europa League. [LNB] On target: Crouch scored a late winner in the game against Besiktas [LNB]The fact that it was the 30-year-old's 23rd goal in 51 games in UEFA club competitions demonstrates the calibre of player Stoke have landed, but Pulis says there has been no hint of ego from his star forward and praised his all-round performance. [LNB] Over the line: Crouch scores as Stoke came from behind [LNB]Asked about Crouch's scoring statistics,Pulis said: 'It's great for Peter and it's great for us, although the big thing was the way he worked off the ball and the way he defended their crosses. [LNB]'Their set-plays were very good and Crouchy was fantastic defending them. [LNB]'The players have really taken to him and he is a great lad in the dressing room. [LNB]'Given what Peter has done in his career, to come and join in and be part of what we've got, and be as humble as he has been, is fantastic. [LNB]'I have to say the likes of (fellow summer signings) Jonathan Woodgate, Matthew Upson and Cameron Jerome have been exactly the same. [LNB]'They have all really bedded in because they have just bought into what we are trying to do, and long may it continue.'[LNB] The win over Besiktas at the Britannia Stadium saw Stoke rise to the top of Europa League Group E and means they go into Sunday's Premier League trip to Swansea having lost just once in 13 games in all competitions so far this season. [LNB] Stoke 2 Besiktas 1: Crouch and Walters drive Potters onwardsPulis looks for home comforts as Stoke continue to live European dream
