Crouch confident over future

Peter Crouch has admitted the threat of new arrivals at Liverpool is spurring him on.

Reds boss Rafa Benitez is expected to bolster his attack for next season as his side have struggled for goals this term.

Any new signings are sure to increase speculation on Crouch's future with Newcastle linked with the England international during the last transfer window.

However, Crouch, who scored his first Liverpool hat-trick in the 4-1 win over Arsenal on Saturday, is determined to fight for his future at Anfield.

"I know there could be new players in the summer. It spurs you on, no-one is safe at a big club like this," noted Crouch.

"There is always quality coming in. But as long as I keep performing I will keep my place.

"You can never be sure you will keep your place, even for Tuesday in Eindhoven in the Champions League. This is a big club with big players."

Crouch also insists he has no problems with Benitez's much talked about rotation policy and the former Southampton man believes his goalscoring record stands up.

"If the manager feels fresh legs are needed, so be it because I know I will play a good share of games," added Crouch.

"And if I play I know I will score goals. We have to accept there will be rotation at club level, but to come in like I have and score three is a real boost.

"When you do get a chance to play at a club like Liverpool, you have to score on a regular basis.

"I feel I have been doing that. When I am given the chance, I will always score goals.

"People seem to look at the number of appearances but it is a better guide to look at how many minutes I am on the pitch and how many goals I score, I feel I do pretty well when you look at it like that.

"When I am called on I must give my best. When I am given the opportunity I have to take it.

"I was pleased with the goals I got, particularly the header. When a cross comes in that `hangs' up there, my eyes light up because I can attack the ball and I was pleased with that one."