By Shane Farrington
12 Apr 2011 17:35:00
Andy Carroll, Liverpool
Related Links
Teams
Players
Newcastle and England legend Alan Shearer believes Liverpool forward Andy Carroll has all the attributes of a top-class striker.
After failing to score in his opening five matches for his new club since his £35 million January move, Carroll bagged a brace in an impressive display during a 3-0 Premier League victory over Manchester City on Monday.
The Geordie hero, who briefly worked with Carroll during his eight-game spell as temporary Newcastle boss, has also been impressed by the mental strength shown by the 22-year-old.
“Andy is excellent. I like the way he bullies defenders,” he told the Evening Chronicle.
“He’s a no-nonsense type of centre-forward – technically good, devastating in the air with a rocket left foot, and deceptively fast.
“What’s more, Andy is mentally very strong, which is so important. During all his off-field problems up here, he never let anything affect his game.”
Despite spending most of his time since departing as Newcastle boss as a pundit, Shearer admitted he has come close to taking on his first permanent managerial role.
He added: “I have had interviews and got close to taking a managerial job. I loved my eight weeks at Newcastle, despite the way it ended.
“I would seriously consider going back into football, but it would have to be right.
“It’s imperative that you have a chance of success at your first job. That’s what I would be looking for.”