As January approaches, so too does the first chance to buy or sell players to bolster squads, move on dead weight or waste money on the over-hyped. While the Premier League’s title race looks to be a close one - the league’s top six clubs are separated by just seven points - it’s ever so possible that one player could send a particular club over the top for the title, a Champions League spot or would even allow said club to avoid relegation.
Newcastle United’s Andy Carroll Not For Sale, Says Alan Pardew
With so much on the line, cue the talk, rumors and the potential transfers of 2011. The Geordie nation have enjoyed their return to England’s top flight this season. While the Toon won’t challenge for the title or a Champions League spot for next term, a solid mid-table finish and a Europa League spot are attainable outcomes.
Currently in eighth on 22 points and level with Liverpool, Newcastle are comfortable if not always a moment away from crisis as long as current owner Mike Ashley remains at the helm. But through Joey Barton, Cheick Tiote, Mike Williamson, Kevin Nolan and especially Andy Carroll, Newcastle have impressed on the pitch this season.
The in-form Carroll has already scored 10 goals, has earned his first England cap and has received attention from other clubs in the Premier League such as Tottenham, Everton and Liverpool. But the current Newcastle boss Alan Pardew has recently spoken to BBC Sport about Carroll and how his future should be on Tyneside.
“Andy’s career path is here, he just has to keep working hard. We have to have a big-club mentality and hold on to our best players. It just goes to show you his value at the moment. Andy just has to keep doing what he does best. He has already proved that playing for Newcastle United will not hinder his international career, so why does he need to go? He loves it here and loves the fans - long may it continue”.
Earlier this season, Carroll had some off-the-field trouble and was forced to live with club captain Kevin Nolan but for now, with his success on the pitch earning the 21-year-old an England call up, seems to have matured quite quickly into a leader on the pitch.
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