Record signing Andy Carroll is determined to prove he can be a leading goalscorer for Liverpool and does not want to be judged on the injury-affected start to his Reds career.
The £35million striker signed late on the final day of the January transfer window but because of an existing thigh problem he did not make his debut until March 6 as a substitute in the 3-1 win over Manchester United. Even then he was not fully fit but was accommodated in the side, finishing the campaign with just nine appearances for the Merseysiders.
However, after a full pre-season Carroll believes he is now ready to show why manager Kenny Dalglish was willing to spend so much to bring him to Anfield, and the 22-year-old said: "I have had the pre-season which I needed and it has helped me get over all the niggles and injuries that I have had. Now it is a case of pushing forward. I have got to show what I can do."
He added: "I was injured a long time, so it was nice to play a few games and get my fitness up, as well as getting a few goals.
"I'm just looking forward to the rest of the season and keeping myself fit.
"It is a big stage and I love playing for this club. Now I have got to do what I did to get myself here (score goals) and I am out to prove that I can do it here."
Carroll said the influence of Dalglish, and the faith the Scot had shown in him, was a major help.
"Kenny is a great manager and it is great to know that he has given me all his backing," the England striker added. "I have just got to give it all back to him, really.
"In training he is giving me little pointers here, there and everywhere. Obviously I need to listen to him and put them into my game.
"It is nice to know that he has got faith in him and it is a big help."
Source: PA
