Rodgers: I´m not pushing Carroll out

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has denied suggestions he is trying to force striker Andy Carroll out of the club.

Carroll’s future has been subject to intense speculation in recent weeks, with many speculating that he does not fit into the possession-based style of play Rodgers favoured with former club Swansea City.

West Ham are rumoured to have made a loan bid which includes an obligation to sign the England striker outright next year, but Rodgers has played down such reports.

“I’m certainly not wishing to push him out of the door,” Rodgers told reporters.

“Have there been any bids? Not that I am aware of.

“Obviously I’ll know more when we get back (to England). There has been a lot written about Andy, but you saw today he’s happy to be here and he’s worked very well since he’s been here.

“The reality is he’s still a Liverpool player. He can fit into how I want to play, and he is happy here.”

It has been reported that the Reds, who drew 0-0 with Tottenham in a friendly on Saturday, are looking for 20 million pounds for Carroll, with the club thought to want to move him on permanently rather than on loan.

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has admitted his interest in bringing the 23-year-old back to the Sports Direct Arena.