Crouch eyes Owen partnership for England

Peter Crouch believes Roy Hodgson should consider pairing him with Michael Owen for England if they make an impact up front for Stoke City.

Crouch said the addition of Owen at the Britannia Stadium could reap dividends for Stoke and aid both players in their pursuit of a place in Hodgson’s international side.

“If Michael (Owen) stays fit he will score. If he’s playing regularly for Stoke and scoring in the Premier League, I don’t see why he can’t force his way into the England set-up,” Crouch told The Sun.

“Stoke’s profile is about to be raised just by the fact Michael is here and the gaffer has made a lot of shrewd summer signings.

“The future looks bright and, if we’re scoring regularly in the Premier League for a successful team, why shouldn’t we be considered again?”

Crouch has been out of favour with Hodgson, missing the latest squad to face Moldova and Ukraine despite the injuries that forced Wayne Rooney and Andy Carroll out of consideration.

But Crouch said he is simply focusing on his club commitments at the moment.

“To be honest I’ve taken my eye off England now a little bit. I’m just concentrating on doing well for Stoke, the rest takes care of itself,” he said.

“I’m playing well and I’ve scored in my last couple of games. I play most weeks and I’m really enjoying my football again. Michael coming here is another step forward.

“I’ll just continue to enjoy it. If the England call comes, great. If not, I’ve got Stoke to concern myself with.”