Saturday, May 21, 2011

Dalglish Happy Enough If Carroll Is Picked For U21s

Kenny Dalglish says he would have no problems if Liverpool striker Andy Carroll is called up by England for the forthcoming Under-21 European Championships.

Controversy has surrounded Stuart Pearce's squad selection for the summer tournament, with Arsene Wenger warning that Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere should not be picked - especially if Carroll, a player in a similar situation, is excused from action.

But Dalglish insists he has no problem with the £35 million striker being selected for the event, believing it to be part and parcel of international football.

He also paid tribute to Carroll's team-mate Jay Spearing, who is one name almost certain to be included in Pearce's final squad when it is named next week.

"We will wait and see if he [Carroll] is picked on Monday," Dalglish said. "At the moment Jay is in the squad and he's not had a mention.

"If he gets into the Under-21 squad it is a fantastic reward for what he's done.

"If any other of our players go then fine."

Dalglish also hopes midfielder Raul Meireles will be fit for the final game of the season, as the Reds face Aston Villa.

"He is training, so I think we should have him in and around the game for Sunday," the Scot added. "We won't take any chances, but we expect him to be fit."

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