Former Newcastle United forward Michael Owen believes Andy Carroll could make a huge difference to the Magpies' prospects this season.
The England international forward rejoined Newcastle in the summer on a free transfer - eight-and-a-half years after he left the club to join Liverpool for a British record fee.
The 30-year-old has since spent the last six weeks shaking off an ankle problem and he finally made his second debut for the club on Saturday as a second half substitute.
Carroll was given a raucous reception from those inside St James' Park on Saturday and he had a positive impact on his side - despite the 0-0 draw with Brighton.
Both Isaac Hayden and Jamaal Lascelles spoke post-match about the belief his introduction instilled, not only on the players but also to the fans, and Owen is confident his return will prove to be a vital boost going forward this season.
"I think he would have been delighted to get Andy Carroll on as well. That would have been a relief," Owen told Premier League Matchday Live.
"It is just that momentum. He doesn't have to do anything. Just him being on the pitch gives them a lift and for him to only play 10 minutes plus injury time was a big sigh of relief for the Brighton camp."
