Andy Carroll is facing a strict training regime at Liverpool.
The Sunday Mirror says it was no coincidence that the £35million striker made an early return to pre-season training last week as manager Kenny Dalglish's backroom staff attempt to get the most expensive English footballer fully fit for the first time this year.
Dr Peter Brukner, Liverpool's Head of Sports Medicine and Sports Science and fellow Australian fitness and conditioning coach Darren Burgess will attempt to knock 22-year-old Carroll back into shape after an injury-hit start to his Anfield career. Just over five months after moving from Newcastle, there are already significant voices warning Carroll he must improve his attitude, self-discipline and fitness if he is to become a success.
A source close to Carroll said: "Andy hasn't been fit since injuring a thigh against Tottenham on December 28. He never played for Newcastle again and it was another 10 weeks before he kicked a ball for Liverpool.
"That was a long time to be out and he didn't really recover. He picked up several niggling injuries but knows he has to hit the ground running next season.
"He has been told he is going to be worked hard in pre-season and it is a big challenge now for him to reach peak physical condition.
"He is aware questions are being raised over his attitude and lifestyle and it is now up to him to put in the required effort to prove the doubters wrong."