Friday, September 09, 2011

Carroll Defended By Dalglish

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish does not agree with Fabio Capello's criticism of Andy Carroll's fitness and insists he is pleased with his £35million man.

Carroll did not make the bench for the Euro 2012 qualifier in Bulgaria on Friday and, prior to Tuesday's win over Wales, England boss Capello voiced his concerns over the player's drinking habits.

It is a subject Capello has raised before but Dalglish said there were no issues with the 22-year-old frontman.

"As we've said before, Andy was not properly fit last season because of a knee injury but we have been pleased with his level of fitness this season because he has lost that injury," said Liverpool's boss.

"I think Andy is very appreciative of advice from anyone who has a good standing in football.

"I think he appreciates Capello's advice because he has great respect for Fabio and Fabio has great respect for Andy."

Carroll at the end of last season missed England's Euro 2012 qualifier against Switzerland and the European Under 21 Championship.

The former Newcastle striker was then this summer pictured partying on holiday in Barbados, and it prompted Capello earlier this week to say: "Andy needs to be careful.

"I don't know anything about his lifestyle. It is a private problem that I never spoke about.

"But if he wants to be a good player and a good sportsman, he needs to drink less than the others. He is not at the top of his form at the moment."

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