Shearer hails Carroll for staying 'mentally strong'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Former Newcastle striker Alan Shearer has praised Andy Carroll's mental strength in bouncing back from his off-field problems.
The 22-year-old, who scored his first goals for new club Liverpool in Monday night's crushing 3-0 Premier League victory over Manchester City, repeatedly found himself in the headlines for his activities away from St James' Park.
However, Carroll's form on the pitch won him a £35m January move to Anfield, and Shearer has been hugely impressed by a player with whom he worked briefly during his eight-game spell as manager of Newcastle in 2009.
He said: "Andy is excellent. I like the way he bullies defenders. 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."
Shearer, who works as a BBC pundit, also revealed he has been close to accepting a first permanent managerial post after failing to be put off by his time at St James', during which he was unable to prevent the club from slipping out of the top flight.
He said: "Yes, 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."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments