Fabio Capello says he will wait until after the weekend's action before deciding whether to call up Andy Carroll for England's Euro 2012 qualifier against Wales.
Striking ace Carroll, who made his debut for his country against France at Wembley in November, is expected to start for Liverpool at Sunderland on Sunday after shrugging off injury problems which have hindered his chances of an immediate impact at Anfield.
England boss Capello watched the 22-year-old, a £35million signing on Merseyside from Newcastle in January, in action against Braga in the UEFA Europa League in midweek ahead of next Saturday's clash at the Millennium Stadium.
But Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has already suggested Carroll may not be fit enough to deal with an England run-out, and Capello says he is still undecided over the youngster.
"I went to Liverpool to monitor Andy Carroll. He has played just one game (since being fit)," said Capello.
"Will Carroll be okay for Wales? We need to wait until after the weekend games.
"He is fit but he needs to play games because the big players need more games to find the good form."
Capello says he will also monitor Manchester City winger Adam Johnson, who has been struggling with an ankle knock, against Chelsea on Sunday, adding: "I just read that Adam Johnson played 10 to 20 minutes on Thursday (against Dinamo Kiev).
"I don't know if it is too soon for him (to be selected). We will see how he goes on Sunday."
Manchester United defender Chris Smalling has also impressed Capello and could come into the equation, certainly for the friendly with Ghana on March 29th.
He said: "Smalling is a very interesting player. I am monitoring him.
"I spoke with Sir Alex (Ferguson) and he told me he needs more games, more experience.
"But I think, when you play Champions League games, it is really important."
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