Andy’s handy but who will win it for Liverpool?

Andy Carroll of Liverpool moves forward after a heavy challenge by Adil Rami of Valencia during the pre season friendly match between Liverpool and Valencia at Anfield in Liverpool, England. (GETTY)

Published Monday, August 08, 2011

By Staff

The title for the worst run-up to this year’s English Premier League season is still up for grabs between the top six sides of the leage.
Arsenal clearly have their noses in front, but Liverpool were always in the running.

That is until Andy Carroll showed up.

He led the reds to a 2-0 victory over Valencia..

But Dirk Kuyt, who bagged the stoppage-time second, warned: "You always have to be careful not to get silly cards. You don't want to end up getting suspended."

He was talking about Carrol’s lunge at a Spanish player.

Meanwhile, Stewart Downing is ready for the fight of his life - to win a place in the Liverpool side.

It may have cost £20million to prise the England winger from Aston Villa but a look around the dressing room left Downing admitting he is no automatic choice.

For all the Reds have been leaking goals in pre-season, their attacking options are envied throughout the league.

And the 27-year-old knows that, regardless of his fee, Kenny Dalglish will have no problem leaving him on the sidelines if he does not deliver the goods.

He is relishing the chance to deliver the ammunition for hitman Andy Carroll, with Suarez yet to return to training after helping Uruguay to Copa America glory.

Cole is one of those who will be off before the end of the window, with Paris St Germain, QPR and West Ham interested.

And Alberto Aquilani could return home to Italy, with AC Milan lurking.

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