'Andy Carroll's goal shows he's much more than a lump'

Sunday 11 Jan 2015
Carroll silences the Swansea crowd after wonder strike
Andy Carroll’s fabulous strike against Swansea City proved he is more than just a “lump” up front according to West Ham assistant boss Neil McDonald.

The England striker struck a superb goal during the Hammers 1-1 draw with the Swans at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday – controlling fellow Three Lions international Stewart Downing’s cross on his chest before switching feet to buy a yard of space and clipping a superb shot into the top corner from 15 yards.

McDonald, who was in charge of team affairs for the day due to boss Sam Allardyce suffering with a chest infection, told BBC Sport: “Andy's set us up and it was a very pleasing goal because we have worked on his movement in the box.

"People think he is just a lump but he has more to his game"

McDonald on Carroll

“The first touch was great, he showed fast feet to get half a yard and he sticks it in. People think he is just a lump but he has more to his game. He has great touch and is a goalscorer with his head or feet.”

Carroll had been the boo-boy target for the home supporters throughout the first half, and the big striker says it was nice to silence his critics with the strike – although he believes it was all good natured.

“I had been out wide and the fans were giving me some and when I scored I had to get out there and give them some back,” he told BBC Sport.

“I enjoy the banter. When I was a fan and a season-ticket holder at St James' Park I would shout at players on the pitch so I know what it is like.”


By Gary Stonehouse Staff Writer