Andy Carroll’s career has been on a stop-gap mode as the former Newcastle United frontman is yet to step up to the big level. He was tipped to be the successor of Alan Shearer at Newcastle United but his inconsistencies have pushed him to mediocrity.
Now it is being reported Newcastle want their striker back. Rafael Benitez has gone nuts over his forward options and wants some big names on his side. The Spanish manager failed to bring in a notable name in the summer and had to be satisfied with Joselu, who doesn’t seem to be a fit at the St James’ Park so far.
Benitez has a very coveted forward lineup but the Spaniard wants more cover up front and thus has shifted his attention towards Carroll. The lanky forward hasn’t been in his best form and Slaven Bilic wouldn’t mind cashing on him in January.
Carroll’s persistent injury problems could be a concern but the player has shown his ability at the St James Park before and if he is given a good run of games, he still can inflict severe damage on the opponents. Bilic is an avid admirer of the player, who is among the best players in England, in the air.
He is athletic, irrespective of his height and can be a very good option up front, considering his ball retaining quality. Carroll’s stock has fallen in the last couple of seasons but still, he has the cutting edge in him, which probably needs a little bit of backing, which Benitez is likely to provide.
Carroll is one of the old-fashioned strikers, who likes to depend more on the long balls but managers in the Premier League these days like to play in a more direct passing system, which has been a problem for the big man.
He came through the Academy of the Magpies and went on to represent them in the big league. His brilliant form convinced the Liverpool hierarchy to spend on him but it proved to be a big gamble as the striker failed to establish himself at the Anfield.
He then moved to the Hammers initially on loan and subsequently moved to the London Stadium permanently in 2013. Newcastle might get a new owner very soon and if that happens, Benitez would get a lot of money to refurbish his squad and Carroll could be one of his priority transfers. But is he the right man for them?
