KOP News # 1078

 

Apr 05, 2012

Is Andy Carroll worth the wait?

13 months ago, Liverpool shattered their transfer record, making Newcastle United striker Andy Carroll their most expensive signing at £35 million.

Carroll, who stands at 6'3″, was expected to revolutionize the Reds squad—alongside fellow newcomer Luis Suarez—and carry the club back to the Top Four where they rightfully belong.

But the fact is Carroll has struggled  since his arrival at Anfield. Liverpool fans will be surprised to know that each goal Carroll scored has cost Liverpool around £6 million. In comparison each goal ex-Kop hero Fernando Torres has scored at Chelsea has been priced at £10 million.

It would be an understatement to say Liverpool expected more from Carroll. He has been nowhere near the player Kenny Dalglish and Damien Comolli thought he would be when they brought him in and I personally think Carroll will never ever be a 20 goal a season striker for Reds unless Liverpool completely change their style of play and he then finds some confidence.

Right now, one option available to Kenny Dalglish, is to send Andy Carroll away from Liverpool on loan for a whole season which would allow him to recapture his form and confidence. But even this option seems to be unlikely as Liverpool would be paying his salary over this time and I personally feel our new owners will not accept such a deal. To be honest who would want to send a player out on loan who has cost you £35 million.

Carroll, unlike our previous strikers Fowler, Owen or Torres has yet to be seen as a natural finisher. He neither has the pace nor the technical ability as the former, to maneuver through the opposition's defense. One may recall a time where midfielder Lucas Leiva came under harsh criticism with majority of the Liverpool supporters claiming he is not a Liverpool player, but now only to be seen as one of Liverpool's most consistent players' for the past two seasons before being injured.

The question of relevance now is if Liverpool have the time and patience for Carroll?

In comparison Manchester City paid the same amount of money for Sergio Augero and it's pretty obvious to see who got value for money.

What do you think Liverpool should do with Carroll? Keep him until he finds form? Loan him out for a possible boost to his form, or sell him for what ever we can and cut out losses.