Shearer compares Carroll to Duncan Ferguson

Apr 18 2009 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

ALAN Shearer is happy to compare Andy Carroll to former Newcastle striker Duncan Ferguson, so long as the youngster does not start kicking his door down when he is not selected.

Ferguson famously booted Ruud Gullit’s door off its hinges when the Scotland international and Shearer were only named as substitutes for a Tyne-Wear derby 10 years ago.

That angry outburst helped secure the Dutchman’s resignation as manager, but Shearer would prefer to dwell on Ferguson’s ability as a target man rather than the violent temper which frequently got him into trouble on and off the pitch. “Because of Andy’s size and the aggression with the heading ability, probably that is why people have compared him to Duncan,” said Shearer.

“On his day big Dunc was unplayable. Andy has a long way to go.

We know that, but he is giving himself and us a chance. I asked the players on the fringes to go out and prove they want to start.

“On the field Big Dunc could be unstoppable. I know that having played with him.

“He’s big, quick, aggressive, good touch. Andy has got all those attributes.