Chris Waddle hails this Newcastle United ace - who he believes can be a 'big asset' for Steve Bruce

Carroll has agreed to extend his stay at St James’s Park until the end of the 2020/21 season, after signing a one-year contract at the start of the current campaign.

While he is yet to score since his return to Tyneside, Carroll has been a regular in and around Bruce’s squad all season - with Waddle particularly impressed by the 31-year-old’s performance in the FA Cup defeat to Manchester City.

And while the former Tottenham midfielder believes it’s a ‘shame’ that Carroll is lacking support up top, he has backed the striker to continue to form a key part of Bruce’s squad moving forward.

Waddle told Racing Post: “I’m glad to see Andy Carroll get the chance to extend his contract at Newcastle.

“Steve Bruce is doing a fine job at St James’ Park and that’s because he has recognised his team’s limitations.

“He has them trying to defend solidly and then hit teams on the counter attack and it has been working well.

“It is a shame that means Carroll doesn’t really have the support he needs.

“They desperately need to have a supporting striker but it doesn’t allow for that. He gave Manchester City’s Aymeric Laporte a difficult evening in the FA Cup last week and we all know his qualities.

“But it’s a deal that suits everyone. Carroll loves Newcastle, while his wages are dependent on how much he plays. And I have every confidence he can still be a big asset.”

Along with Carroll, Javier Manquillo also agreed new terms with the club last month – which left manager Steve Bruce delighted.

"I'm delighted Javier Manquillo and Andy Carroll have extended their contracts longer term,” he said.

"They have both made important contributions this season and I'm really pleased we can continue to call on them beyond the summer."