Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has defended striker Andy Carroll in the wake of criticism from England coach Fabio Capello.

The 22-year-old did not make the bench for the UEFA EURO 2012 qualifier in Bulgaria on Friday and prior to Tuesday's win over Wales, the national team manager voiced his concerns over the player's drinking habits and general fitness. It is a subject Capello has raised before but Dalglish said there were no issues with the £35million frontman.

"As we've said before Andy was not properly fit last season because of a knee injury but we have been pleased with his level of fitness this season because he has lost that injury," said the Scot.

We have been pleased with his level of fitness this season.
Kenny Dalglish on Andy Carroll

"I think Andy is very appreciative of advice from anyone who has a good standing in football. I think he appreciates Capello's advice because he has great respect for Fabio and Fabio has great respect for Andy."

Capello had said earlier this week: "Andy needs to be careful. I don't know anything about his lifestyle. It is a private problem that I never spoke about.

"But if he wants to be a good player and a good sportsman, he needs to drink less than the others. He is not at the top of his form at the moment."