Liverpool news: Higginbotham names the two words that will strike fear into Reds

22:47, Fri, Nov 3, 2017 | UPDATED: 22:47, Fri, Nov 3, 2017

That's the verdict of Danny Higginbotham ahead of the Reds' visit to the London Stadium on Saturday evening.

Liverpool came into the current campaign with plenty of optimism that they could win their first Premier League title.

But they've been held back by the same defensive issues that have stopped them from challenging in previous seasons.

Liverpool will be looking to put those problems behind them when they travel to West Ham this weekend.

Higginbotham believes the prospect of facing former Anfield forward Carroll will be playing on the minds of Liverpool's defenders though.

These two words will strike fear into their defence: Andy Carroll
Danny Higginbotham reveals what will scare Liverpool

Higginbotham told The Sun: "We have all seen Liverpool's struggles with crosses this season.

"So these two words will strike fear into their defence: Andy Carroll.

"He is clearly a threat in the air but he is not just a big lad. His movement is so good and will cause all sorts of problems.

Jurgen Klopp coaches Liverpool versus Maribor in the Champions League GETTY

Jurgen Klopp will be looking for Liverpool to extend their winning run when they face West Ham

Andy Carroll plays for West Ham versus Swansea in the Premier League GETTY

West Ham striker Andy Carroll will be hoping to start against his former club Liverpool on Saturday

"Carroll is always looking for the back post. He peels off to the smallest player in the back four - and usually that's the full back."

Liverpool sit sixth in the Premier League going into the West Ham showdown.

They can move as high as fourth this weekend if they beat the Hammers by at least eight goals and Chelsea and Arsenal both lose.