Manager Steve Bruce was delighted to secure a deal for Andy Carroll to return to Newcastle and feels, when fit, he can be a real addition to the squad.
Carroll spent his formative years at St James’ Park, scoring 33 goals from 91 appearances in all competitions between 2006 and 2011 before moving to Liverpool in a £35m deal.
However, his time on Merseyside was brief, with just one full season in 2011-12 before switching to West Ham on loan. The temporary spell was followed by six injury-ravaged years with the Hammers, which ended when he was released at the end of last season.
Despite the possibility the former England striker might spend more time on the treatment table than the pitch on Tyneside, Bruce had no hesitation in welcoming him back.
“To bring a local hero like Andy back to Newcastle United is fantastic. He is very excited to be home,” Bruce said. “He is a big, physical threat in the opposition box and another great option for us at the top end of the pitch.”
Carroll is currently injured and told reporters he will “not be rushing to get back” as he does not want “anything to go wrong”. Bruce has backed the hitman and is looking forward to seeing him in action wearing black and white once again.
“He gives us something different to what we already have and we’ll do our best to get him flying again,” the boss added. Newcastle start their campaign against Arsenal on Sunday and are priced at 4.33 to win, with the Gunners on offer at 1.85.
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