Fabio Capello has told Andy Carroll to curb his drinking habits if he is to fulfil his potential and become an important player for both Liverpool and England.
The former Newcastle striker was named in Capello's squad for the Euro 2012 qualifiers against Bulgaria and Wales but he did not feature in Sofia due to concerns over his fitness.
The 22-year-old is in contention to face Wales at Wembley on Tuesday after a couple of "fantastic" training sessions, with Capello stressing that Carroll remains an integral part of his plans.
But the England manager believes it is important for all his players to behave responsibly in everyday life and has spoken with Carroll in private to offer him advice.
"His style of life is a problem because you need to be careful," Capello said on Sky Sports News. "He is an important player not only for the England team but also for Liverpool.
"I think he understands what he needs to do."
While Capello feels a top-class footballer should drink less than the average person, he denies having ever said that Carroll consumes too much alcohol.
"I never said this. I don't know his lifestyle but I never spoke about this," said the Italian.
"I think, if you want to be a good player and a good sportsman, he needs to drink less than the normal."
Asked what he had to say to Carroll, Capello replied: "It is a private message. I have spoken with him and it was a private discussion between two people.
"I think he understands a lot. He is young, we need to help him and speak to him, because he is a really important player."
