Andy Carroll was 'outstanding' against Arsenal and Newcastle boss Steve Bruce needs to 'wrap him in cotton wool' between now and the end of the season in order to maintain his fitness.
That was the verdict of former Manchester United, Aston Villa and England forward Dion Dublin who believes Carroll was a 'thorn' in the Arsenal defence during Saturday's FA Cup defeat at the Emirates Stadium.
Carroll missed two golden opportunities to win the game for Newcastle, missing from close range early in the second half, before being thwarted by Bernd Leno from close range in the dying stages of stoppage time.
But it was his all-round performance that caught the eye, as the 31-year-old was full of energy, winning 14 aerial battles in both the defensive and attacking third, as well as having nine shots on goal.
The former Liverpool and England forward was a constant menace for the Gunners in North London and former Premier League Golden Boot winner, Dublin, believes it bodes well for Newcastle between now and the end of the season.
"Outstanding," Dublin told Match of the Day when asked about Carroll's performance.
"If Steve Bruce can keep him fit, wrap him in cotton wool when he needs to, he can give you performances like he did today.
"He was a thorn in the defence of Arsenal every time. Holding off defenders, everything seemed to fall to him. He was defending as well, getting himself in the box.
"He would have backed himself to score his chance. Andy will be disappointed he didn’t score at least one goal today."
