Steve McManaman has backed Steven Gerrard to set Liverpool striker Andy Carroll on the path to becoming a "number nine superstar".
Carroll has scored just five goals in 30 appearances since his £35million switch from Newcastle and this season he has appeared bereft of confidence.
But former Anfield favourite McManaman believes Gerrard, who is back in action after an injury-dogged 2011, has the quality to bring the best out of Carroll.
And McManaman warned that Oldham could feel the backlash in the FA Cup third round tie.
"Steven is Liverpool's best player, he is arguably England's best player," said McManaman. "His assists are wonderful. Just ask Fernando Torres what his assists were like.
"His delivery, his ability to put a ball through is second to none. It should help any centre forward, whether it is Luis Suarez, Torres or Andy Carroll and hopefully it will do.
"Against Manchester City he was a little bit isolated. Liverpool huffed and puffed and lacked that real goal threat.
"I felt a little bit sorry for him because he was up front on his own and Liverpool felt 'we have a big man here, let's chuck everything into the box'.
"It is about quality. Andy Carroll will improve significantly by being at Liverpool. The time to judge him is not now.
"I hope in years to come we are talking about a number nine superstar. You hope that Steven plays against Oldham because he is trying to get his fitness back and that Andy Carroll does play."
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