Ian Rush backs Andy Carroll for Euro 2012

By Robert Summerscales, Reporter | 13 May 2012

Ian Rush calls for Andy Carroll to be taken to Euro 2012, claiming that no defender in Europe would fancy facing him in his current form.

Liverpool legend Ian Rush believes that Andy Carroll should go to Euro 2012 with England.

The 23-year-old target man has scored three goals in his last six appearances, producing particularly impressive displays in the Reds' recent double-header against Chelsea.

Welshman Rush, who scored 351 goals during three spells at Anfield, thinks that Carroll's inclusion would be a gamble worth taking.

He told The Express: "The good thing from an England point of view is that Andy has loads left in the tank because he hasn't been playing regularly. Ask any top defender in Europe and they would admit they wouldn't fancy facing Carroll in his current form.

"At times against Chelsea on Tuesday he was unplayable. He has now settled in, which isn't always easy at a big club, especially when you have a £35m price tag on your head. He didn't set the price but it can still be hard.

"Now he has the confidence, you'll see what he is capable of. Some may say it would be a gamble for Hodgson to pick him. I believe it's a gamble that would really pay off for England."

Carroll has spoken of his desire to be included in Roy Hodgson's squad, which is to be named on Wednesday.