Newcastle considering emotional swoop to bring Andy Carroll back to the club... eight years after leaving as the most expensive British player ever

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Newcastle will monitor Andy Carroll's injury rehabilitation as they consider offering him an emotional return.

Boyhood fan Carroll left St James' Park eight years ago, as he became the most expensive British player ever when Liverpool paid £35million for him.

But his career has since been plagued by injuries and an ankle problem reduced him to just 14 appearances during his final season with West Ham.

Forward Andy Carroll is a free agent after leaving West Ham United in the summer

Manuel Pellegrini opted not to offer Carroll a new deal, although is allowing the striker to use their Rush Green facilities over the summer.

It is understood that Newcastle are keen to stay abreast of Carroll's situation as they look to bolster their attacking options.

Both Salomon Rondon and Ayoze Perez have departed, while youngster Elias Sorensen started up front during the 1-0 Asia Trophy win against West Ham in Shanghai.

The former England striker endured an injury-hit spell at Hammers after joining from Liverpool

Yoshinori Muto did his case no harm by scoring a predatory winner but new boss Steve Bruce – who watched from the stands in China - remains desperate for more goals in his squad.

They hope to complete a £35m deal for Joelinton at Hoffenheim. The need for additional bodies should see another striker come in and Newcastle may eventually turn to Carroll as well.

The 30-year-old is still some way from a return to full training and could be months from being available, although it is a deal that can be down outside the transfer window given he is unattached.

Carroll scored 34 goals in 142 appearances for West Ham since arriving from Liverpool, initially on loan, in August 2012.

Carroll quickly became a Toon fan favourite after coming through the club's academy