Mark Hughes insists Peter Crouch has a future at Stoke despite lack of playing time

Peter Crouch has revealed his frustrations at his lack of game time

Mark Hughes insists Peter Crouch has a future at Stoke despite lack of playing time

 

STOKE boss Mark Hughes insists he wants to keep veteran striker Peter Crouch at the Britannia Stadium.

 

Crouch has played just 15 minutes of Premier League football so far this season and recently revealed his frustrations at the lack of game time.

West Brom are set to revive their interest in the 34-year-old in January having failed to lure him to The Hawthorns in the summer.

But Hughes remains determined to hang on to the 6ft 7in former England man, who is contract to the Potters until 2017.

“Does Peter have a future here? Very much so,” Hughes said.

“I’m very conscious of the fact I’ve not been able to give him as many opportunities as he would like. There will be games absolutely where Peter is the right option for here. 

 

“There’s been situations where I’ve played Jon Walters down the middle and he’s done well.

“I’m conscious of the fact that Joselu needs games, so I’ve been trying to give him game time and that’s probably affected Peter in terms of getting on the field of play.

“It’s been a frustrating period for Peter. He probably came back and a little bit behind the group after an operation so he’s playing catch-up to a certain extent.

“That’s shaped my thinking in terms of the amount of football he’s had. He’s working hard and getting back to his proper level now so he comes into my thinking a lot more now.”

Hughes takes charge of his 100th game in charge for the Potters against Watford on Saturday, but the Welshman claims he is unconcerned by personal milestones.

 

Mark Hughes will take charge of his 100th game as Stoke boss

“I’m not too bothered about the landmark. I’ve lasted longer than my last job!” Hughes added.

“I suppose it’s not bad in this day and age. That’s how it is, it’s not easy. You have to have a good deal of luck.

“We understand what it takes at this level and it helps you. You have still got to be fortunate. That enables you to have a bit of longevity.”

Hughes is set to welcome back centre-back Ryan Shawcross for the clash against the Hornets following his recovery from a back injury.

Striker Mame Diouf will also be available having returned to training after compassionate leave.