Crouch talks up Portsmouth move
July 11, 2008, 20:00

Peter Crouch has denied taking a step down in his career after leaving Champions League regulars Liverpool to complete his £11 million transfer to Portsmouth.

Crouch, 27, has agreed a four-year deal at Fratton Park after three years at Liverpool.

Crouch, who left Pompey to move to Aston Villa in 2002, said: "It is fantastic to be back, the club is going places and I have worked here before and the manager always gets the best out of me.

"I feel I have got the best years of my career to come and it will be at Portsmouth," he said.

"I have left a great club but this club is going where it can be.

"I had a fantastic three years at Liverpool and I would not change it for the world. I am privileged to have played for such a top club.

"Towards the end I did not get as many games as I would have liked but I will only take good memories away.

"In no way am I stepping down, I feel I am joining a club that is going places with a new stadium, a new training ground and some very good players."