Hughes: Crouch has a big part to play

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Veteran striker Peter Crouch is not on the brink of being shipped out of Stoke City despite the arrival of a brand new attack force, according to first team coach Mark Hughes.

The Potters’ boss confirmed he has no desire to sell 33-year-old Crouch, who still has a year left to run on his contract at the Britannia Stadium, insisting he will play a key part in Stoke’s 2014/2015 Premier League campaign.

Crouch scored ten goals in 38 appearances last season and his form met the approval of Hughes, who told Sky Sports: “Crouch was exceptional last season, did really well for me.

“He’s a great asset on and off the field so we don’t want Peter to leave. He’s got a big part to play.”

At a staggering 6’7” tall, the former England international is famed for his success ‘in the air’ and enjoyed a five-year spell as a Three Lions player, representing his country 42 times including a feature in the 2010 World Cup.

With Hughes on a mission to improve the Potters’ Premier League standing from 9th position next season he has already bolstered his attack force with Senegal international forward Mame Biram Diouf, who scored eight goals in 19 appearances for his old club Hannover 96 last season, along with ex-Fulham midfielder Steve Sidwell, who also has an eye for a goal.

Stoke’s summer transfer business is far from complete however, with a pending loan deal with Barcelona striker Bojan reported to be on the cards.