ANDY FEELS SO AT HOME
ANDY CARROLL is relishing his second chance at Newcastle after years of trying to seal a return to his hometown club.
The giant striker has proved himself an important part of Steve Bruce’s side in the past week with two assists and his first start of the season in successive wins.
Carroll made his name at the club but after eight years away is relishing his fresh start on Tyneside.
The ex-Liverpool and West Ham frontman, 31 next month, said: “I’ve been trying to come back and wanting to come back for years.
“I would have regretted it if I didn’t get to step on the pitch in the black and white again.
“I appreciate it a lot more this time round. Making my debut, starting against Sheffield United the other day, creating goals, winning games, I really appreciate it.
“I didn’t really appreciate it the last time. I just kind of thought everyone got that chance at 17.
“I didn’t really understand it as much as I do now.
“Coming back, it’s a massive club, massive stadium, massive fans. It’s part of me growing up.”
His return to St James’ Park was hailed as a “nobrainer” by Bruce when he joined on a free on a deal heavily incentivised if he avoids injuries and plays games.
And Carroll, who has nursed his troublesome ankle back to strength while making several cameos off the bench this season, is proving his worth.
His first start against Sheffield United last Thursday saw him set up Jonjo Shelvey in a 2-0 win.
He also crossed for the midfielder to head home against Southampton in Sunday’s 2-1 victory.
“I said to Jonjo, it’s about time he gives me something, but we’ll take them anyway,” said Carroll.
“I haven’t scored yet but it doesn’t matter when you win games. I’d like to get a chance, I’d like to score but the points are more important.”
Carroll will pressure £40m signing Joelinton for his place at Burnley on Saturday.
■ NEWCASTLE are giving away season tickets free to help fill St James’ Park.
Season-ticket holders will get the chance to get another for no charge for the rest of the campaign.
A fan boycott aimed at owner Mike Ashley has hit attendances, with the 42,303 against Southampton on Sunday the lowest in the top flight for nine years.