Andy Carroll emerged as a prolific centre-forward a decade back having made significant strides through the academy ranks of Newcastle United. The young English talent was soon roped in by Liverpool in a then club-record £35m transfer fee which, however, went completely wrong for both the club as well as the player.
Carroll is still termed as the worst Liverpool signing ever, and he failed to resurrect his form at West Ham United despite spending seven seasons in East London. Injuries troubled him throughout the stint and the England international, now 30, is back to his boyhood club after being released by the Hammers upon the expiration of his contract.
While the big ‘number 9’ is still sidelined with an ankle problem, his role might be a bit different this time as told (as quoted by the Shields Gazette) by boss Steve Bruce while sharing an update on Carroll’s potential return date. He is back on the pitch to do some drills and is hoping to take part in the full-c0ntract training ahead of next weekend’s tie against Brighton & Hove Albion.
While Bruce does not see him featuring week in, week out; his presence in the camp, as well as the training ground, would help the youngsters and newcomers learn the game more and settle in at Tyneside.
“He’s not the young Andy Carroll. It’s the Andy Carroll who can help the two Longstaffs (Sean and Matty), help Allan Saint-Maximin because he’s a bag of tricks. It’s to try and help them a little bit and steer them in the right way, and I think he’s enjoyed that responsibility.”
Why Carroll Still Has A Lot To Offer To The Toon Army
The Magpies have enjoyed a decent start considering the outrage of the fans in the aftermath of Rafael Benitez’s exit. While Bruce is not expecting more than 12 to 15 starts from the Englishman, an impact both on and off the pitch would be crucial in their battle to stay up and aim a mid-table finish.
Newcastle have spent heftily on Joelinton to spearhead their attack, but the 23-year-old Brazilian might eventually struggle in the new surroundings going forward. Dwight Gayle has been scintillating in the Championship but has never managed to replicate his brilliance in Premier League football.
Carroll, therefore, might be called upon from the dugout to add more strength as well as experience in and around the box. His physical and aerial supremacy along with power and holding attributes would be effective high up the pitch if a long-ball strategy is executed to threaten the opponents’ against the run of play.
