Scotland boss Levein admits he wants to cap Newcastle striker Carroll

Scotland boss Craig Gordon admits he's chasing Newcastle United's England U21 striker Andy Carroll.

The United star has five England Under-21 caps and Fabio Capello has earmarked him for full international recognition.

But Levein told the Sunday Sun: “I’m dead keen to get Andy involved with Scotland.

“His grandparents have got Scottish blood.

“He’s a smashing player and somebody that I feel would be a great asset to the Scottish national team. There aren’t many guys around like him these days. He’s somebody who’s tall, athletic, really good in the air and he’s got a fantastic touch.

“He’s had a great season for Newcastle. I’m not saying it’s impossible but it would be very difficult for him to break into the England side and, you know, I’d like him to come on board. If he keeps improving the way he has in the last year or so then I think he’s going to be a fabulous player.

“I think he’ll do well in the Premier League, he’s got a good attitude. He’s a young boy and that season will have done Andy Carroll the world of good, stepping down a level just so he could play every week and learn the trade.

“He improved as the season wore on and I think there’s a hell of a lot more improvement to come from him.”