Spurs fans reacted angrily in July when Modric went on record to state his desire to complete a 'dream' move to the club's London rivals, who have made two unsuccessful bids for the player this summer.
Fans' favourite: Tottenham's Luca Modric (R) takes on Athletic Bilbao's Fernando Llorente
Despite his public flirtation with leaving the club, Modric received a huge round of applause when he entered the field - something which Crouch hopes could prove pivotal in keeping the star at the club amid reports that Chelsea weighing up a fresh ?30million-plus bid for the player.'I think he might have been a bit concerned about which way it would go but he got a great reception.'That certainly makes it harder for him that the fans are right behind him.
'He knows that the fans here love him and hopefully he can stay herefor as long as he can.
'He is a top player. We love him at the club. He is a great lad to have about. We all want him to stay,' said Crouch.
Something to shout about: Crouch is hoping the vocal White Hart Lane support will convince Modric to remain
Daniel Levy has stuck to his position that Modric will not be sold despite the fact that the playmaker launched a verbal public attack on the Tottenham chairman for not allowing him to leave for Stamford Bridge.Modric made his first appearance at White Hart Lane since the transfer saga erupted, coming off the bench in the 24th minute of Spurs' 2-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao.
Levy and Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp both know Modric's creativity and tireless workrate in the centre of midfield will be key to the club's attempt to qualify for the Champions League.Meanwhile, Spurs are expected to find out tomorrow how long Steven Pienaar will be out of action for after the South African hobbled off with a suspected groin tear during the first half of their win over the LaLiga side.
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Source: Daily Mail
Source: Daily Mail