Former Newcastle manager Chris Hughton has backed Andy Carroll to be an England international 'for many years'.
The pair worked together at St James' Park until Hughton was sacked earlier this season, with Carroll going on to join Liverpool in the January transfer window.
Hughton feels the 22-year-old reaped the benefits of a full season with the Magpies in the Championship last term and is backing him for a bright future at the highest level.
He has nevertheless urged Carroll to keep working hard after a promising start to his Anfield career.
"Andy has definitely developed and what was good for him was being able to play a full season in the Championship," said Hughton.
"That was a big positive for him and he has gone on from there and adapted well to Premier League football.
"Even in Newcastle's first game of the season, when we lost 3-0 at Manchester United, he was a big positive.
"Now he has gone to Liverpool and is playing well alongside [Luis] Suarez and I'm sure those two will complement each other very well."
Hughton added: "There is no doubt that Andy is capable of being an England international for many years but whether he does is down to a lot of factors.
"You have to deal with the highs and lows, steering clear of injuries, improving his game, working with other players and being adaptable."
Hughton also confirmed that he is itching to return to management after being out of work since December.
He had initial talks with West Brom before they appointed Roy Hodgson in February and is now desperate for a fresh challenge.
"When you're away from the game for a while, you have got to use the time the best way you can," said Hughton.
"I've been watching an awful lot of football but now I'm just looking to get back as a manager because I enjoy the responsibilities that go with the role.
"The spell at Newcastle whetted my appetite. There are a lot of challenges that come with being a manager but I'm looking for an opportunity to get back in.
"The talks I had with West Brom were just initial talks.
"They spoke very well about the club and did everything correctly.
"I'm delighted to see them doing well and Roy is a very good and experienced manager."
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