West Ham United No2 Neil McDonald is backing Andy Carroll for an England call.

McDonald believes he can add an Emile Heskey-like presence if picked for this month's friendly against ­Republic of Ireland and the June 2 clash with Brazil.

"When you're in that form you should be considered for England," McDonald said.

"I think the perception with his size is that he is just a big target man, but he is much more.

"He's not just a flick-it-up-and- hoof-it man - he would give ­England more options than just a big ball up top. Emile Heskey did that sort of role for Michael Owen.

"He's more than a big lump and he does work at his game and is still a young man. He has gone to the top very quickly, but he is young and still learning."