Andy Carroll taking Championship chance

Nov 10 2009 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

ANDY Carroll has been one of the biggest beneficiaries of Newcastle United’s spectacular fall from grace as Chris Hughton admitted he would have struggled for games in the Premier League.

Hughton had challenged all of United’s youngsters to make the most of the opportunity Newcastle’s relegation had given them – and none have seized it more convincingly than Carroll.

The 20-year-old has become a vital component of United’s attack and Hughton has praised the speed of his development as he predicted a bright future for the Gateshead youngster.

Carroll has been on the fringes of the United squad for the last three years without managing to become a regular in the side, but a drop down to the Championship, and an exodus of striking talent, has given him a chance to shine – and he has not disappointed so far.

“I think it’s fair to say Andy Carroll would not have got this chance this season if we had still been in the Premier League,” said Hughton, still mindful of the fact his centre-forward could still become a victim of the many off-field distractions.

“He wouldn’t have played as many games, that’s for sure, so the drop down has been good for him on a personal level, although I’m sure he never wanted to see the club get relegated.

“This has been a great chance for him to get a run in the side and learn from the experience and he’s managing to do that.

“He is one of the young players we have at this football club who have benefited from the difficult circumstances we found ourselves in after relegation. I said

that in pre-season. We had a group of youngsters who had been on the fringe of the first-team squad and they would be expected to compete for a place in the side this season because we don’t have as many senior players available.

“I said it was up them if they took it and Andy has taken his chance without a doubt. I’ve been delighted with him – and he is developing quickly.

“He is clearly benefiting from the games he is playing at this level and the experience he is getting is vital. When I look at what he has done this season he’s been smashing.”