Monday 8 December 2014 12:07, UK
Andy Carroll's form for third-placed West Ham has put the striker back in contention for a place in the England side, says former Manchester United assistant manager Steve Round.
Carroll’s two goals against Swansea, his first goals for nine months, have proven the striker’s aerial prowess and could prove to be the missing ingredient for the England side.
Round told the Morning View on Sky Sports News HQ that Carroll’s goals undoubtedly put the striker in the view of England manager Roy Hodgson
"He will be looking at him for sure," said Round. "He gives him a different option, he gives him a plan B, he gives him something that you can launch a ball into the box, you can cross it into the box, and you have a presence there on the end of it.
"He is exceptional in the air, and that’s the one thing we’re lacking a little bit in English football at the minute.
"West Ham now have got a different style of play: they can play great football going through you, over the top with the pace… or they can go round you to cross it for Carroll to head it in there."
Former Southampton captain Francis Benali said Carroll's aerial strength was a key part of West Ham’s recent success.
"He’s a tough player to play against when he’s on his form," he said. "West Ham have great home form now, which is crucial and an important element to any side being successful and doing well.
"I think it’s Big Sam just sticking with it. He's been given time to work in the job as well, and I think we’re seeing the fruition of that now."
