Matchwinner Crouch in line for new Stoke deal
Stoke City 2 Southampton 1
Peter Crouch celebrates scoring his sides second goal with his team mates Erik Pieters and Mame Biram Diouf. Photo: Getty Images
Mark Hughes hinted that the evergreen Peter Crouch could earn another new Stoke contract after he came off the bench to net the winner against former club Southampton.
It had looked as though the Potters would rue Saido Berahino's fourth successive penalty miss when Maya Yoshida's volley cancelled out Mame Diouf's header, but 36-year-old Crouch saved the day five minutes from time.
Maxim Choupo-Moting of Stoke City in action. Photo: Getty Images
Former Liverpool target-man Crouch, who joined Stoke for £10m in 2011, signed a contract extension until next summer earlier this year and Hughes has indicated a willingness to discuss fresh terms.
"It wasn't a big decision (to offer him a new contract last season) because we know what he can bring to the side," Hughes said.
"If he continues in the same vein, we will be having a similar discussion some time this year as well because his physical attributes haven't waned. He's still doing things he was doing at 26, 27 and as long as he does he will remain effective at this level.
"Crouchy is invaluable. He's a great guy, a fantastic personality to have within your club. He's been doing that kind of thing all through his career. I probably frustrate him on occasions because he still wants to start and I keep him back to have an impact, but when he comes on late in games he will always affect opposition defences."
Mark Hughes, Manager of Stoke City shows appreciation to the fans. Photo: Getty Images
Crouch came on for Berahino 20 minutes from time after the ex-West Brom forward saw a first-half penalty he won off Virgil van Dijk saved by Fraser Forster.
It is now 32 games without a goal for Berahino, dating back to February 2016 when he was still with the Baggies, and he has had three penalties saved and another which missed the target with during that drought.
"He showed personality and showed responsibility, grabbing the ball and we were all willing him to score," Hughes added.
"He's working hard and is just trying to get a break. Once it comes he will be off and running. That initial goal for us is a little bit elusive, unfortunately.
"Something will hit his shin, knee or backside, who knows? When it comes that will get him off and running I'm sure."
