KD backs Carroll for Euros
Kenny Dalglish believes Andy Carroll has done his hopes of representing England at Euro 2012 this summer no harm at all with recent performances.
The No.9 has impressed in Liverpool's last two outings - both against Chelsea - to continue the fine form he has displayed in the last few weeks.
And Dalglish reckons Carroll will return to the Reds even stronger next season - regardless of whether he represents his country at either the European Championships or the Olympics.
"Andy will benefit from the fact he has been here for a year and has not had any problems with injuries," said the boss.
"But the quality in the last couple of games has been fantastic and he has been building up to that for the whole season.
"I'm sure he will come back next season very much encouraged by his performances and starting afresh.
"We don't know what is going to happen with Andy yet - whether he is going to be away with England in the championships or chosen for the Olympics.
"I am not going to pick either Stuart Pearce's or Roy's team but if you want to play for your national side - and he does - or the Olympics - and he would do if he was picked - the best way to is to produce the goods on the pitch.
"The players will be judged by the performances and the better they play the more chance they have got."
Meanwhile, Dalglish believes Steven Gerrard would be 'very proud' to be asked to captain England this summer after media reports suggested new national team boss Roy Hodgson could offer the Three Lions' armband to the Anfield skipper.
Dalglish said: "All we can speak about is Steven and his time at Liverpool Football Club and the service he has given us and the way he has led the club many times by example on and off the pitch.
"He's a real credit to the club.
"We cannot speak highly enough of Steven but that is our opinion, if someone differs from that then that is up to them.
"I am sure if he was asked (to be captain) he'd be very proud."