Newcastle United striker Andy Carroll could take no pleasure from his goal in yesterday's defeat to Leicester City.

Carroll could lead the attack in next weekend's FA Cup clash at Arsenal in the capital as Steve Bruce looks to rotate his squad once again.

Carroll, speaking to Sky Sports, said: "It felt good but it means nothing at the end of the day.

"We've come away with no points but again we have to just move on to the next one.

"We're getting stronger we've come over a Covid situation and we had a bad spell where a lot of the lads have had it but we have to move forward and on from there."

With the pressure growing on Bruce after an awful League Cup exit, he could do with Carroll putting together a good run of form.

When asked about Carroll after the game, Bruce said: "I'm delighted for Andy.

"He's been a bit frustrated because he hasn't been in the team, but he's come on and reminded us of what he can do.

"It was a great finish and there was one Jonjo played along the six-yard box we were urging someone to tap in.

"But Andy came in and gave us something else up front, which is always good to have."