Andy Carroll believes Newcastle United will be stronger in their Premiership return thanks to a more stable summer.

The Toon forward admits 12 months ago turmoil off the field was difficult to handle.

This summer will definitely be better than last one. As a footballer you just feel more comfortable knowing what is going on," Carroll told the Evening Chronicle.

"Last year all started a bit rocky, no-one knew what was happening in the summer, who was coming and who was going.

"When we went down to Leyton Orient and got hammered 6-1 I think people were fearing the worst but Chris (Hughton) and Colin (Calderwood) were able to ignore everything else that was going on and they pulled us together as a team.

"They sorted us all out and I think that organisation and that strong dressing room spirit will help us this season too."