Crouch is proving his class, says Gerrard

STEVEN GERRARD slammed Peter Crouch’s critics as the giant hitman scored the goal that gave Liverpool their 10th successive Premiership victory and cemented their position in the top three.

The depth of the anger felt by Liverpool’s players over the treatment of the £7 million (€10m) striker was revealed after he continued his hot scoring streak to break West Brom’s commendable defiance at Anfield.

Skipper Gerrard said: “Peter was playing really well even when he wasn’t scoring, he was doing well for the team and I wonder where all the critics are now who were on his back.