Newcastle United rule out Andy Carroll return

Newcastle United have dismissed speculation that Andy Carroll could be in line for a return to the club this month.

Reports yesterday suggested that Magpies manager Alan Pardew was ready to offer Carroll the chance to rejoin the club on loan following a one-year stint with Liverpool.

The England international has struggled for form and fitness since his £35m switch to Anfield, finding the net on just five occasions.

However, sources close to Newcastle told the Evening Chronicle that they were "astonished" by stories that Carroll was heading back to Tyneside.

Two of Carroll's five goals for the Reds have come this season.