Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has defended Andy Carroll following recent criticism of the striker's lifestyle from England coach Fabio Capello.<br /><br />Carroll was a substitute in England's win against Wales after Capello said: "If he wants to be a good player he needs to drink less than the others."<br /><br />But Dalglish insisted: "His fitness would stand up against anybody's.<br /><br />"I don't think his lifestyle is anything like you want it to be to write a story."<br /><br />The Liverpool boss added: "Andy was not properly fit last season because of a knee injury.<br /><br />"We are pleased with his fitness this season because he's lost that injury."<br /><br />Carroll, 22, has started two of Liverpool's first four games in his first full season at Anfield following his move from Newcastle in January.<br /><br />The forward has scored once, in a substitute appearance in the Carling Cup victory at Exeter - but netted twice against Manchester City last season in a 3-0 win.<br /><br />Dalglish added: "I think Andy is very appreciative of advice from anyone who has a good standing in football.<br /><br />"I think he appreciates Fabio Capello's advice because he has great respect for Fabio Capello and I think Fabio Capello has great respect for Andy Carroll."
