Andy Carroll was delighted with his goal for Newcastle United in Saturday's 1-1 draw at Stoke City.

"I grew up watching (Alan) Shearer and seeing him close up just proved to me he was the best finisher ever," said the youngster.

"It's just unbelievable to come off the bench and score.

"We really needed that point. We came for all three but to lose and go home with nothing would have been terrible."