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King Kenny defends `son’ Andy

Comment: 0 September 9th, 2011 by: admin

LIVERPOOL manager Kenny Dalglish treats Andy Carroll like his own son so when the latter gets the flak, he is always there to defend.

Like when England coach Fabio Capello warned Carroll over alcohol abuse that allegedly affects his playing form.

Dalglish lost no time coming to Carroll’s aid, saying the criticisms against him were “totally unfair.’’

Although Carroll has been left out of the starting lineup by both Liverpool and the England national team, Dalglish insisted there is no concern at the Reds’ camp over the tall striker’s form or drinking habits.

In defending the Red’s 35-million-pound signing from Newcastle United, Dalglish said: “Andy has not done too badly for us. We don’t have any problem whatsoever with him. We are delighted to have him here (Liverpool) and he will be a fantastic asset for us.’’

On Monday, Capello said Carroll is not at the top of his form at the moment and must be careful. The Italian boss added he doesn’t know anything about his lifestyle but warned that if the latter wants to be a good player and a good sportsman, he needs to drink less.

Dalglish said the issue on the 22-year-old Carroll was an old story blown out of proportion and stressed that the player should be judged for what he does on the pitch.

The Scottish boss added that injury, not alcohol, is the cause of Carroll’s slow start with the Reds.

“We have said often enough that Andy wasn’t properly fit last season because of a knee injury but that seems to fall on deaf ears. We have been very pleased with the level of fitness he has achieved this season,’’ said Dalglish.

Meanwhile, Dalglish said the Reds have no latest injury problems and are ready for Saturday’s trip to Stoke.  Charlie Adam will be available and Glen Johnson may get his first league appearance after recovering from a hamstring strain.

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