Football

Andy Carroll admits he would have regretted not making Newcastle comeback after inspiring Southampton win off bench


ANDY CARROLL is enjoying his second coming at Newcastle even more than his first.

And the born-again striker admits he would have always regretted it had he never returned to St James’ Park.

 Andy Carroll came off the bench against Southampton to set up another goal in the come-from-behind 2-1 win

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Andy Carroll came off the bench against Southampton to set up another goal in the come-from-behind 2-1 winCredit: PA:Press Association

Carroll left his boyhood club for Liverpool in 2011 for £35million but came home in the summer on a free transfer following his release by West Ham.

After recovering from the ankle injury he picked up last season, he has nine appearances under his belt for the Toon and made a huge impact in the last week.

Carroll provided an assist on his first start in the 2-0 win at Sheffield United last Thursday.

Then on Sunday he came off the bench against Southampton to set up another goal in the come-from-behind 2-1 win that had boss Steve Bruce claiming “he was like the Carroll of ten years ago”.

Giant 6ft 4in Geordie Carroll said: “Starting the other day, creating goals, winning games, I appreciate it a lot more now.

“I didn’t really get the chance to appreciate it the last time — I just kind of thought everyone got that chance at 17.

“It’s a massive club, massive stadium, massive fans and it’s part of me growing up.

“Honest to God, I’ve been wanting to come back for years.

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“I would have regretted it if I didn’t get to step on the pitch in the black and white again.”

Carroll, 30, signed a one-year, pay-as-you-play deal on deadline day, with his basic £20,000-a-week wages rising to £70,000 if he plays.

His arrival was still met with some scepticism, given his injury record since he left Newcastle aged 22.

But Carroll has suffered no reaction to the ankle surgery he had in April.

He has only missed games because of a groin strain and a rib problem.

Carroll said: “My ankle has been no problem, I don’t even think about it. I’m feeling good.”

He has also hailed the impact of Bruce, who has guided Newcastle to mid-table, despite his appointment being met with widespread disapproval from fans.

Carroll added: “He was not really everyone’s cup of tea. But I think he’s proving everyone wrong.
“Seven points in a week is great.

“It’s down to the manager, the staff, the players and the hard work that everyone is putting in around the club.”

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Carroll is now eyeing up his first goal since his homecoming — and a start at Burnley on Saturday.

He said: “Every game I am licking my lips and wanting to play.

“I’d like to score and get off the mark but really the points are more important.”

 Carroll left The Toon for Liverpool in 2011 for £35m but came home in the summer on a free following his release by West Ham

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Carroll left The Toon for Liverpool in 2011 for £35m but came home in the summer on a free following his release by West HamCredit: Getty – Contributor





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