Crouch has eye on scoring charts

Peter Crouch has set his sights on becoming one of England's leading goalscorers even though he remains a bit-part player for his country.

Crouch has scored 22 goals in 42 appearances for the Three Lions including 17 in 19 starts and, despite being on the fringe of Fabio Capello's plans, he believes he has the time to move into the top five England goalscorers with Nat Lofthouse, Tom Finney and Alan Shearer all on the 30 mark in joint fifth place at present.

Crouch said: "I'm not going to lie, I've had one eye on those England goalscoring stats. It would be an amazing achievement (to get into the top five). I think I'm on 22 goals."

He added: "I've seen that Nat Lofthouse is on 30 and in the top five. It's not a million miles away from where I am - and why not?

"I feel fit and I feel healthy and, touch wood, I've not had many injuries in my career and can go on for quite a while yet."

Crouch is adamant his desire to play for England still burns bright despite his own knockbacks.

He said: "Right from when I started my England career, I think I've always felt I've done well and given a good account of myself. I've felt I've never let anyone down.

"I've been part of the set-up for five or six years now and not missed many squads, so I must be doing something right!

"I don't bear grudges if someone comes in and does well but I know whenever I've played I've done well, and if given the opportunity in future, I know I'll do so again."

"It's never crossed my mind not to continue. I think it's an honour every time you get called up. I still get a buzz every time you receive the text to let you know you are in the squad and that's never going to change."