Stoke City: Mark Hughes backs Peter Crouch for World Cup

Mark Hughes and Peter Crouch Stoke City

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Stoke City boss Mark Hughes has backed Peter Crouch to carry his club form on to the international stage if he is picked for this summer’s World Cup.

The 6ft 7in striker has failed to impress England boss Roy Hodgson since he took over the international team, but his recent performances could have helped his chances.

Crouch has scored 22 goals for the Three Lions in 42 games but he has plenty of competition with Wayne Rooney, Daniel Sturridge, Danny Welbeck, Rickie Lambert and Jay Rodriguez all in front of him.

He was in fine form on Sunday in Stoke’s 4-1 victory at Aston Villa, getting on the scoresheet and creating Peter Odemwingie’s goal.

Speaking after the win, Hughes insisted that Crouch could continue his fine international record if selected by England for the World Cup.

He said: “He has given us a focal point, and his link-up play was brilliant today. He is an international-class player, he has proven that at international level.

“He has a great record for England. Maybe the people in charge are looking for a similar type of player as effective as Pete.

“Maybe his time has come and gone, but if he was asked to go I am sure he would go.

“If anyone rang me up and wanted a view on whether or not I think Peter should go to the World Cup, I can obviously give them a very positive one.”

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