Andy Carroll insists he was forced out of Newcastle United this summer.

The 32-year-old, who 10 years ago was the most expensive British footballer ever following his £35million move to Liverpool from St James' Park, struggled for minutes under Steve Bruce last season and his contract at his hometown club wasn't renewed.

Carroll is eager to play on and told the Athletic: "The league (a club is in) doesn't really bother me as long as the club is right for me and them, that's what's important,' he says.

"The kids still think I'm going to sign for Man City or Barcelona, which we all know is not going to happen, but they're still pushing me on to get a club and it's what I want to do. I want to play in front of my family and win games. My drive and my passion hasn't faded away in the slightest."