Carroll's pledge to England U21s

Andy Carroll has joined Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere in declaring himself ready to forfeit a summer break and play for England U21s.

Wilshere has irritated Gunners boss Arsene Wenger by taking a stance over the Euro Championship U21s finals in Denmark.

Carroll's international career stalled after a row with U21s boss Stuart Pearce, so the striker is anxious not to upset him again. Carroll believes he is in no danger of burn-out by playing on into June.

He has missed almost three months of the season with a thigh injury, and wants to make up for lost time.

Liverpool would prefer him to rest, but Anfield manager Kenny Dalglish knows the young striker will be concentrating on football for much of the close season.

Delighted England boss Fabio Capello believes it will be good experience for Carroll and Wilshere to play in a tournament a year before the senior European Championship finals in Ukraine and Poland.

A source close to Carroll said: "Andy is anxious to play for the U21s in the summer. He believes it will help his senior international career."

Source: Sunday Express

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