Carroll would not be a success if he made emotional return to Newcastle

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Newcastle are looking at bringing West Ham United striker Andy Carroll back to the club in the January transfer window, according to the Express.

They report that the prospect of a swap deal between Carroll and Jonjo Shelvey this month, which would move both players back towards their local areas.

It remains to be seen whether the deal will get over the line and Carroll’s eventual, emotional return to St James’ Park has been mooted many a time since he left for Liverpool in 2011.

And with Rafa Benitez’s striking crisis, it may be tempting to conclude that the return of the man who was once a local hero would be a major boost to Newcastle’s survival hopes – but it wouldn’t.

Carroll’s injury problems are well-documented and the simple fact is that he cannot be relied upon.

Further, he is the antithesis of a Benitez player; the Spaniard demands discipline and professionalism from his hard-working, counter-attacking side.

Carroll will not fit into that and the money he still demands would undoubtedly pose issues behind the scenes for a frugal Magpies board.

Newcastle need more than sentimentality at this stage and too much water has gone under the bridge for Carroll to now be a success once more.