Carroll has told the West Ham website that he anticipates the same again this year, and does not hold it against Newcastle’s supporters – who, for the most part, delighted in his failings last year.

The striker failed to score and was caught up in a diving row with Tim Krul after he appeared to go to ground too easily for the Dutch goalkeeper’s liking.

Pardew had words with him at the time but says there are no ill feelings, and he clearly still rates the forward.

Carroll’s career has fluctuated since leaving Newcastle and he is yet to register for West Ham despite a string of performances that suggest he is coming back to his best form.

“I’ve always stuck up for him and I still think he has a role for England,” Pardew said.

“As a number 9 there are times and periods in international games where an England number 9 can still be a massive threat.

“People keep talking about the modern game, a loose number 9, the way Spain and Barcelona play, but there is still a place at the highest possible level for a player of Andy’s qualities. He’s one of the best number 9s out there.”

Asked about the deal that was on the table this summer, Pardew insists that Newcastle were serious about trying to lure the striker back to Tyneside.

“Yes, I thought there was a possibility of it,” the managed admitted.

“We were in there because he brings something different to the table to what we have got and we could probably do with another striker. We were right in there, but unfortunately we weren’t able to get it done at board level.”

Pardew carried out a quick assessment of his squad yesterday after they returned from their Belgian assignment and is likely to ring the changes once more.

But Vurnon Anita will continue at right-back, with Pardew considering the return of the 4-3-3 formation and a return for Demba Ba, formerly of West Ham.