Metro: Carroll set to lead England attack

Andy Carroll is set to cap a sensational turnaround in fortunes by leading England's attack in their Euro 2012 warm-up match against Norway.

The Liverpool striker has been heavily criticised for his modest goal return this season, but a spike in form towards the end of the campaign earned him a place in Roy Hodgson's Three Lions squad and with Danny Welbeck struggling with an ankle injury, he's now likely to start in Saturday's friendly in Oslo.

Manchester United forward Welbeck was believed to be Hodgson's preferred deputy for Wayne Rooney, who will be suspended for the first two games at this summer's European Championships, but concerns over the 21-year-old's fitness may allow Carroll to stake his claim for a place in the first XI against France on June 9.

Welbeck has failed to shake off the ankle injury he suffered in a challenge from Manchester City's Nigel de Jong on April 30, and the United man didn't train with the rest of the England squad during yesterday's session.

The FA will continue to monitor Welbeck and his absence on Wednesday night was described as 'precautionary'.

Scott Parker and Steven Gerrard both took 'some part' in training, despite finishing the season injured.

Glen Johnson, who was already an injury doubt for the Norway match on Saturday, has left England training early today.

Source: Metro