Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart has come out in support of Andy Carroll, and believes that the Liverpool striker could make a positive difference to any team.

The striker is thought to be out of favour at Anfield and has been the subject of failed transfer bids from West Ham and former club Newcastle United.

But his England team-mate Hart says that the big frontman is a fine player at that, despite enduring a tough time at the moment, he still has the ability to make an impact at the highest level.

“He’s obviously got issues at the moment with the manager at Liverpool, but that comes in football. I would back him to succeed whichever way he turns,” Hart told The Mirror.

“If he stays at Liverpool, there is no reason why we can’t see him in that starting line-up and everything is resolved. He is a great asset for anyone who has him.

“At the moment, playing without a big striker seems to be the way to go. But there are plenty of teams who do play with one. Andy’s talent is not only kicking and heading the ball, he just happens to be better at it than a lot of people, if not everybody.”

City travel to Merseyside to take on Liverpool on Sunday, and Hart is not looking forward to the prospect of going up against Carroll, who he knows will always pose a threat.

“When Andy comes on or if he starts, you know you are in for a game. I don’t think centre-halves want to play against him,” he continued.

“He might not please everyone, but he is a hell of a good, hard player. He loves to get stuck in and he gives everything. He’s slapped two past me at Anfield before.”