Hangeland can control Carroll, says Hughes

MARK HUGHES has backed the ultra-competitive Brede Hangeland to put the brakes on Andy Carroll in Fulham’s Premier League clash at Newcastle this afternoon.

Carroll has taken the top flight by storm since the Magpies’ promotion and his seven goals in 12 games look set to earn him a maiden call-up to the England squad for Wednesday’s friendly with France.

The 21-year-old has netted in his last two outings and his final chance to impress Fabio Capello and his staff comes at St James’ Park today.

But Hangeland will be no pushover, having just managed to keep Didier Drogba quiet in Fulham’s 1-0 west London derby defeat at Chelsea last Wednesday night.

And manager Hughes has revealed just how much the 29-year-old hates to lose.

“He is very disappointed when he loses games, as we all are, even if he loses challenges or five-a-sides on training fields,” Hughes said.

“There is the same intensity to his work. He wants to work hard for the team and that inner drive is what you want to see in players.”

However, Hughes knows Hangeland cannot keep Carroll quiet for 90 minutes unaided.

“Obviously, we are aware of the areas that Andy Carroll likes to attack, so hopefully we can actually stop the source to him,” he said.

“I think that’s probably the best plan of action.”