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Poland legend mocks Carroll with grandson jibe

Questioned: Andy Carroll's movement has been put in the spotlight © PA Photos

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Andy Carroll has been ridiculed by Poland legend Zbigniew Boniek ahead of England's World Cup qualifier in Warsaw.

Carroll, 23, has had his critics since his £35 million transfer from Newcastle United to Liverpool in January 2011, although he has demonstrated a return to form in recent months, and he is expected to be a key player as West Ham, where he is on loan, look to fight off relegation this season.

The forward was introduced in the 73rd minute of England's 5-0 win over San Marino on Friday, and it is understood he could be in line for a starting berth when Roy Hodgson's men tackle Poland on Tuesday night.

However, former Juventus and Roma forward Boniek has questioned the ability of Carroll, being quoted in a number of newspapers as saying: "My (eight-year-old) grandson Mateo moves better on the pitch than Andy Carroll. Mateo is very good at golf and tennis. He has better co-ordination."

Glenn Hoddle has voiced his opinion that he would not utilise Carroll from the off versus Poland, with the ex-England manager tipping Jermain Defoe to be the man to spearhead Hodgson's attack.

Hoddle told ESPN: "My feeling is that Roy will go with Defoe up front as the big Polish defenders won't like a nippy forward like him running in between. I cannot see him picking Carroll from the start, but will use him as an impact substitute.

"But it's in defence, certainly central defence that worries me, and I'm not quite sure what would be his best two central defenders."

Hoddle added: "It's always tough going to Poland. They always raise their game against England, and it will be no different this time. They have an outstanding centre forward who I can see playing in the Premier League next season.

"I took the England team to Poland the last time we played there and goals from Teddy Sheringham and Alan Shearer gave us a 2-0 win. I hope it's the same again, but I don't think it will. More likely 1-1."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.