Crouch: Big season ahead

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Fabio Capello admits Peter Crouch's England prospects should improve following his move to Portsmouth.

Crouch struggled for regular first-team football at Liverpool last season and had a shortage of opportunities to impress England boss Capello.

He joined Pompey in a £10million switch over the summer and is aiming to force his way into Capello's starting line-up.

Though Crouch has been left out of the squad for Wednesday's friendly with Czech Republic, Capello is pleased the towering forward has moved to Fratton Park.

Very important season

"I'm really happy for Crouch because now he can play more games," said Capello in The People.

"It's very important for him because it's better if he is playing all the time. If a player plays only one game a month it's just not enough in the Premier League.

"Players lose their confidence and that is very important for them.

"I sensed that Crouch was frustrated at Liverpool. We will see how he settles at Portsmouth, but it's a very important season for him."