West Ham United’s Andy Carroll has been tipped to be called up to England.
James Collins has told West Ham United’s official website that he has never trained alongside a player like Andy Carroll.
The experienced Welsh international regularly has to mark Carroll in training, and it is a tough task.
Collins admits that Carroll’s unique style makes him a massive threat, and the centre-back has backed the former Newcastle United man to receive a call up back into the England team.
“I think [Andy Carroll] should be [in the England squad]. A fit Andy Carroll is a handful for any defender,” Collins said.
“I know if I was playing against him and he was in the opposite team, I’d be in for a tough afternoon. It gives [England] something different.
“What Andy can do; I’ve never trained against a lad or played against a lad who is as physical and as good in the air as Andy, so I think it’s a no brainer for him to be in the squad as something different to what they’re used to.”
Carroll’s persistent struggles with injury has stopped him earning much international recognition lately.
Carroll has not played for England since way back in 2012, but Gareth Southgate is monitoring his progress.
When fit, Carroll has been in good form for West Ham this season – and has played an important role in their attack.
Carroll has netted six goals in 16 appearances for the Hammers so far this campaign, but has not featured since the start of February due to fitness issues.
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