Alan Shearer has claimed that Andy Carroll's ability in the air means that he can make an impact for England at Euro 2012.

Former England striker Shearer believes that the amount of headed goals that have been scored at the tournament is not a coincidence and that Roy Hodgson should use Carroll at some point.

Shearer told The Sun: "Poland, England, Ireland, Germany, Ukraine and Croatia twice all scored headed goals. All bar one, were from very good deliveries too. Big men getting on the end of good crosses.

Although Carroll was left out of the team that drew 1-1 with France on Monday, Shearer insists that Joleon Lescott's goal in the match proves that the Liverpool forward should partner Danny Welbeck in attack.

"What about us getting those balls in at the other end? Joleon Lescott's execution with his head for our goal was superb. But, right now, this tournament is made for Carroll. Every defence seems to be struggling with the aerial threat. I would not have him in there at the expense of Danny Welbeck either - but alongside him," Shearer added.

Ukraine currently lead Group D after the first round of games.