Carroll glad to be up and running

Liverpool’s record signing Andy Carroll is eager to quickly build on his short debut appearance in yesterday’s 3-1 victory over Manchester United at Anfield.

The 22-year-old, who became the most expensive British player when he moved from Newcastle on January transfer deadline day, ended a spell of more than two months on the sidelines with a thigh injury with a 16-minute cameo.

He showed his determination to make up for lost time by almost making his first touch count, heading Jamie Carragher’s free-kick at goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar.

Manager Kenny Dalglish has tried to temper expectations, insisting Carroll still has a way to go to reach full match fitness, but the striker is keen to get his Reds career up and running.

“It was great to get out there and the result made it even better,” said the England international.

“I was on the bench and itching to get on right from the kick-off really but I’ve started now and can’t wait for the next game.

“When I was running back (after being called for a substitution by Dalglish) all the fans were shouting and screaming and so I got a little bit excited.

“I was over the moon to get on there and get back playing.”

Carroll added on liverpoolfc.tv: “The support was unbelievable for me. The fans have been great since I signed and even when I was warming up, they were fantastic.

“It was an incredible atmosphere, definitely one of the best I’ve ever experienced.”