Liverpool transfers: ‘Newcastle have a soft spot for Andy Carroll’

Andy Carroll has scored twice in 12 appearances for West Ham Photo: Football.ua, via Wikimedia

Derek Llambias has admitted Newcastle United still have a “soft spot” for Liverpool striker Andy Carroll.

The England international is currently on a season-long loan at West Ham United, having been deemed surplus to requirements by Reds boss Brendan Rodgers.

The 24-year-old endured a difficult first season at Liverpool after completing a record £35m move to Anfield from St James’ Park in January 2011.

Despite managing just two goals in 11 appearances in an injury-hit spell at the Hammers, the east London club have already agreed a deal with Liverpool for the striker.

But Newcastle managing director Llambias hinted the Toon would be interested in re-signing Carroll if the opportunity arose.

“We’ve always had a bit of a soft spot for Andy here,” Llambias told the Newcastle Chronicle. “He’s a character and he’s getting older and more mature – and he’s stronger.

“It’s unlucky what has happened at West Ham, but he scored a great goal at the weekend. He’s still got a house up here. Andy was part and parcel of our growth.”

Carroll has scored 11 goals in 58 appearances for the Merseyside outfit since his club record move.