West Ham United striker Andy Carroll has become embroiled in a Twitter row with one of the club’s supporters.
The injured England international, who has been ruled out of action for at least four months after damaging ligaments in his left ankle, took exception to the fan’s claims about his lifestyle.
Carroll was accused of frequently drinking alcohol and focusing on parties more than regaining his fitness and establishing himself as an elite footballer at Upton Park.
The argument began when the man tweeted: “He doesn’t take care of himself like he should.
“You can tell he doesn’t – look at last year, boozed up at festivals. Now this year flying all around the world partying.”
Carroll replied: “Pipe down you muppet!! You haven’t a clue you sad little man!!”
The £15million hitman, who has endured an injury-plagued stint at the club since turning his loan arrangement into a permanent deal a year ago, was initially ruled out of the Hammers’ pre-season tour of New Zealand as a precaution.
However, the prognosis was worse than he and the club feared.
West Ham hope to provide more competition for places up front by completing the signature of Pachuca forward Enner Valencia in the coming days, once he has been granted a work permit.