Joe Hart insists that Andy Carroll is a gentleman, not a hooligan and has backed the striker to overcome his current difficulties at Liverpool.
Man City goalkeeper salutes Liverpool striker
Joe Hart insists that Andy Carroll is a gentleman, not a hooligan and has backed the striker to overcome his current difficulties at Liverpool.
Manchester City goalkeeper Hart makes the trip to Anfield for the Super Sunday Premier League showdown unsure as to whether he will be up against his fellow England international.
Carroll's future with the Reds has been called into question following the appointment of Brendan Rodgers as manager, with Newcastle and West Ham both keen on the powerful striker.
The former Magpies forward has been criticised in the past for some off-field incidents, but Hart has nothing but praise for the 23-year-old as a player and a person.
Hooligan
"I love Andy. I love the way he plays football," said Hart, speaking at an event to promote
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"People think he's some hooligan from up north.
"He's anything but. He's a gentleman. I have introduced him to my friends, they can't get over what a good person he is."
Carroll had to settle for a place on the bench in Liverpool's opening day defeat at West Brom, but Hart believes he can be a key player for the Reds this term.
Hard player
"He's got his issues with the manager at Liverpool but that comes in football," Hart added.
"I would back him to succeed whichever way it turns out. He will be a great asset for anyone who has him. He is a very good player, he loves to get stuck in, he gives everything.
"When Andy comes on or if he starts, you know you are in for a game. I don't think many centre-halves would want to play against him.
"He might not please everyone but he is a hell of a good player, and a hard player. A lot of set-pieces revolve around players like him."
