Crouch, whose first strike ended a 291-minute goal drought for Benitez’s side, became the first Liverpool player to score a treble since Milan Baros against Crystal Palace in November 2004.

But the 26 years-old feared it wouldn’t happen, and said: “When the second goal went in, it did cross my mind that I had been there before. Two at Birmingham last season and another two at Watford in January, and subbed each time.

“I must admit, I was a bit nervous it might happen again, especially with a couple of forwards on the bench, so it was a great relief when the third went in.

“I was particularly pleased with my second goal. It was a fantastic ball in from Fabio Aurelio, and it was like a proper, traditional centre-forward’s goal. When a cross like that comes in, your eyes light up. You can go and attack it, and it was great to see it sail into the top corner.

“Maybe I should score a few more like that, but I would always fancy myself to stick it away, given that sort of service.”

Crouch’s only other hat-trick of his career came in England’s 6-1 friendly thrashing of Jamaica in the build up to last summer’s World Cup.

The striker was forced to sit out the Euro 2008 qualifying double header with Israel and Andorra and Liverpool’s Premiership visit to Aston Villa after undergoing an operation on his broken nose.

And he said: “It was frustrating sitting out the England games but I’m sure I will get another chance, if I keep knocking the goals in for Liverpool, and, if I do, you can be sure I will be doing my utmost to make it count.

“For me, it’s just a matter of being involved. I always feel that, as long as I am out there playing, I will score goals, whether it be for Liverpool or England.”

Of his Liverpool future, Crouch added: “This has been a really productive season for me. I might have missed a few games through injury and rotation, but I am feeling as good as at any time in my career. Certainly, I want to remain part of the manager’s plans, next season and beyond, but he doesn’t give much away. He keeps his cards close to his chest, but I am as happy as I have ever been and determined to prove I am worth my place in the team.”

Craig Bellamy missed Saturday’s win with a rib problem but should be fit to travel to Eindhoven today, while Steve Finnan and Sami Hyypia were rested.

Steven Gerrard, who was withdrawn shortly after half-time at the weekend, is also expected to be available.