We can still finish second - Crouch
Mar 31 2006
By Ian Doyle, Daily Post
PETER CROUCH believes Liverpool can still overhaul Manchester United for second place in the Premiership.
Liverpool had struggled for goals but have now struck 18 in their last four games.
Crouch, who has hit four himself, believes the derby victory has increased the side's confidence, despite Liverpool standing five points behind United and having played a game more.
"I think we all knew there was never a problem with us scoring goals but you've got to show that on the pitch, and thankfully in the last couple of weeks we have been showing it," said the striker.
"The win over Everton has given everyone a lot of confidence. We know how big it is to everyone involved in the city and we have beaten them twice now this season and it was just great to be a part of it.
"We now need to win as many games as we can now in the league and finish as high as we can."
Fellow forward Djibril Cisse, who wasn't even on the bench for last Saturday's derby, has reiterated his concern he won't be selected for France's World Cup squad.
"I've got no problem with Benitez," said the striker. "I'm just disappointed not to have so much time to play.
"There are no problems with my teammates. My season at Liverpool has been medium, not up, not down.
"I am afraid of not being in the squad for Germany. Fears are always on my mind concerning Germany. I am scared but I will fight until the end to be in the 23-man list.
"In 2002, the World Cup was bitter, in 2004 I was not at the Euros, so in 2006 I wish to be in Germany to have a great World Cup."
Chris Kirkland has been told Liverpool do not expect him return to the club until his one-year loan spell at West Bromwich Albion expires this summer.
The goalkeeper has been ruled out for the remainder of the campaign after suffering a broken finger, but Liverpool are under no obligation to take the player back and increase their wage bill.
