Steve Bruce reveals Andy Carroll's 'thinking' at Newcastle United

And Carroll – who scored his first goal for the club in more than 10 years last weekend – is pushing for more time on the pitch ahead of this evening’s FA Cup tie against Arsenal.

The Gateshead-born striker, re-signed in the summer of 2019 after leaving West Ham United, scored a header to give Newcastle, then managed by Chris Hughton, a 1-0 win at the Emirates Stadium in late 2010. It’s the club’s only victory at Arsenal in 19 visits in all competitions.

Steve Bruce is likely to again field Callum Wilson up front against in the third-round tie, though Carroll – who has played just 209 minutes of Premier League football this season, and turned 32 this week – is another option.

“Andy scored a great goal, and the one thing he’ll probably want to do is be involved more,” said United's head coach.

“That’s normal. Andy’s no different to anybody else. He reminded us of his ability. It was a great finish. He’ll probably think he hasn’t been used enough. That’s the balance we’ve got to get right. Certainly, what he did last week gave us a lift. He’s done that a few occasions, long may that continue.”

Carroll’s contract at Newcastle runs to the end of the season.

And West Bromwich Albion manager Sam Allardyce this week claimed that Carroll was “not available” in this month’s transfer window.

"I'm looking for a front man, but I don't believe Andy is available at the moment,” said Allardyce.

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