Crouch: Pompey move is no downer

Peter Crouch 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 where, despite winning the adulation of the Anfield faithful, he never found himself at the forefront of Rafael Benitez's long-term plans.

Despite turning his back on the Reds and Champions League football, the England striker believes he is joining a club very much on the up and 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."

He added: "I feel I have got the best years of my career to come and it will be at Portsmouth.

"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."