Crouch accepts Benitez' rotation policy despite two-goal salvo

Peter Crouch insisted yesterday he has no qualms about Rafael Benitez's rotation policy despite his emphatic return to the first team against Galatasaray on Wednesday.

Having been on the bench for the previous four games, Crouch scored twice in Liverpool's 3-2 Champions' League win but he accepts he is not guaranteed a starting role against Bolton this weekend. "Although I scored two goals against Galatasaray there is no telling whether I will be playing in the next game," he said. "I feel as though I've done well with the two goals but the manager likes to chop and change. That's the way he works and it certainly keeps you on your toes - and he's certainly kept me on my toes.

"But he gets results and you can't go bashing down the door if he gets results. That's frustrating because obviously as a footballer you want to be playing every game. But I'll just keep working hard to improve and hopefully I'll continue to get my chance."

Crouch's double against Galatasaray could not have sent out a more emphatic message to Benitez and he now has eight goals in 10 starts this season for club an d country. His first goal was a neat finish from close range but his second strike was a delightful overhead volley which rocketed into the net.

"Nine times out of 10 you try shots like that and they go over the bar, but thankfully that one has gone in the back of the net," said Crouch. "Having been on the bench recently, it felt good to be playing again. And with the manager here, you've got to keep yourself ready because you know he's going to throw you in at any time. You've got to keep sharp in training and when your chance comes you've got to take it."

Club officials yesterday assured Liverpool City Council that they would be able to fund a new £180m stadium, thereby securing the £9m in European grant money required for the success of the overall project. Liverpool, however, are yet to announce how they propose to finance the scheme or when building will commence. New investment or a significant bank loan is required for the project to become a reality.