Friendlies do not faze Dalglish

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has played down the ‘club versus country’ row, saying that international friendlies are not as disruptive as some managers claim.

The Scot was talking ahead of the Reds’ home game against Wigan on Saturday, and despite many of his players representing their countries this week, he has only one injury worry.

“It’s not ideal preparation for us, but then the international managers want some preparation for their European Championship games next month,” Dalglish said on Thursday.

“It might be an idea allowing the clubs to play on Sundays after internationals so people could have a reasonable break.”

“So as long as common sense prevails, we’ll be ok.”

Slovakian centre-back Martin Skrtel is the only casualty from the midweek internationals and is in doubt for the Anfield clash with the Latics, however Dalglish did reveal that Joe Cole would be back in training soon after an ankle problem.

“As far as we know no-one is coming back with any injury problems. Martin Skrtel travelled and then came back home, so we will have to assess him,” he said.

“Joe Cole could be training soon. I would’ve thought that if we get Joe Cole fit and available, he’ll be a good asset for us. It’s been frustrating for everyone, but especially Joe.”

Dalglish also discussed the comeback of 35-million pound striker Andy Carroll, who has missed the last six weeks of the season with a thigh problem and is yet to make his Liverpool debut since his January move from Newcastle.

“He’s progressing very well but he’ll be several weeks – we won’t put a date on it,” Dalglish said.

“He signed for five-and-a-half years not for a few weeks. So as long as we’re patient and Andy’s patient we’ll be ok, but we won’t be rushing him back.”

Jamie Carragher made his return after three months out with a shoulder injury in the 1-0 win at Chelsea last weekend, and Dalglish was quick to praise him and fellow Liverpool stalwart Steven Gerrard for their contributions to the side.

“Carragher and Steven are fantastic servants of the club and are great to have around,” he said.

“Whether they’re playing, or whether they’re just in and around the training ground then they’re a great asset.”