DIRK KUYT believes a fully-fit Andy Carroll can terrorise Premier League defences this season after Liverpool FC’s record signing found himself the centre of further controversy.

Carroll warmed up for next weekend’s big kick-off at home to Sunderland by scoring in the 2-0 win over Valencia in their showpiece LFC friendly on Saturday.

But the England international was fortunate to escape with just a booking following a late crunching challenge on visiting defender Adil Rami midway through the first half.

And while Kuyt has urged Carroll to reign in such exuberance, the Dutchman is impressed his team-mate’s ability to make his presence felt.

“Yeah, we could see that!” said the 30-year-old. “It was a tough tackle and you always have to be careful not to get silly cards. You don’t want to end up getting suspended.

“Andy is very strong in the air and you can also play it into his feet. He’s going to be top quality for us this season.

“The good thing about us at the moment is that we have many attacking options.”

Although initially unhappy with Carroll’s challenge – demonstrated by a slight headbutt aimed towards the Liverpool man – Valencia centre-back Rami defended the 22-year-old.

“The tackle was just something that happens in games,” he said. “I have no problem with him. Carroll is a very good player, a strong player. I like him.

“He is difficult to mark because he is strong with head and also on the pitch. I don’t think too many defenders will like facing him.”

Carroll appeared in all six of Liverpool’s warm-up friendlies, previously netting against Guangdong Sunray Cave and Valerenga.

And Kuyt believes the forward has benefited from a solid pre-season having been hampered by niggling injuries last season following his £35million arrival from Newcastle United.