It's been revealed how Juventus goalkeeper Gigi Buffon predicted three years ago that Andy Carroll would be a big name at Newcastle United.

Carroll is expected to be handed the coveted No9 shirt at Newcastle for their Premiership return this season.

And the Evening Chronicle has revealed how Buffon reacted when Carroll scored past him in a friendly three years ago.

"Carroll played like what we call in Italy a paintbrush striker, he was there to add the finishing touch," said Buffon.

"He played well on his own and although Newcastle were aiming for his head with some of their passes, he showed he can play with his feet too because he laid the ball off excellently to the supporting midfielders.

"He will be an asset because he can find the players around him in different ways and has already shown he has great awareness."