Source: Team_Talk
Carroll earns praise all round
Andy Carroll earned the praise of both managers after going closest to breaking the deadlock in Newcastle's 0-0 draw with Fulham at St James'.[LNB] Cottagers goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer denied Carroll his eighth goal of the season with a superb save which ensured honours remained even on Tyneside.[LNB]Newcastle boss Chris Hughton said: "He is a young player who we have wanted to make very good progress - he has done exactly that. He has added goals to his game.[LNB]"He is very different to most other strikers and he couldn't have done any more this season to stake a claim (for England).[LNB]"When we decided to give him that number nine shirt, it was because we felt he could very much develop into that role, and he couldn't have done any more than he has done."[LNB]Fulham boss Mark Hughes saw central defender Brede Hangeland deal well with the Gateshead-born frontman, but is confident he can make an impression on the international stage when his chance comes.[LNB]He said: "He will certainly make an impression. Whether or not he would be able to go straight in and cement a place long-term, that's a different debate.[LNB]"But if he was involved, he would certainly make people sit up and take notice of him, certainly in opposition.[LNB]"He's a difficult player to deal with and if he gets the right service, which on occasions he has had this season, then he's a real threat and you have to acknowledge that."[LNB]Carroll might have proved the match-winner once again had it not been for the excellence of Schwarzer.[LNB]The Australian, who had earlier pulled off an instinctive save to deny Peter Lovenkrands from point-blank range, made a breathtaking 52nd-minute stop to keep his stinging volley out of the bottom corner.[LNB]Schwarzer was well protected for much of the game with Hangeland working hard to limit Carroll's opportunities, and their side might have left with all three points - something they have not done in the Premier League since August last year - had it not been for Tim Krul and the crossbar.[LNB]The Dutchman denied Clint Dempsey three times, but needed the help of the woodwork to keep out Moussa Dembele's 70th-minute volley.[LNB]Hughes, however, was happy enough with a point.[LNB]He said: "We are pleased with what we have produced. It was important we came here and were really positive, and I think we were.[LNB]"From our point of view, we very much view it as a very good, professional away performance today."[LNB]Meanwhile, Hughton admitted his frustration that the search for a new number two in the wake of Colin Calderwood's departure is still ongoing.[LNB]He said: "It is frustrating because it's a demanding job, certainly at this level.[LNB]"What I do have is a very good staff. It's a small staff, but it is a very good staff, and there are some advantages to that.[LNB]"But we have lost a very good number two and we do need to replace him."
