Steve Bruce believes that Andy Carroll is worth keeping in his squad for next season.
The former West Ham striker grabbed his fifth assist of the season against Aston Villa and gave England defender Tyrone Mings a tough time after the centre-half had dominated for most of the game.
But Mings couldn’t live with Carroll and the centre-forward played in Dwight Gayle for his first of the season.
Bruce said: “Hey listen, that's why he's going to stay. A fit Andy Carroll is always good to have around.
“After lockdown, he's lean, he's lost a lot of weight.
“It's certainly benefitted us and him and just at the right time.”
Reflecting on what Carroll brings to the team Bruce added: “It goes up there and it sticks and he makes a goal - I think that's now four or five assists he's got, so we're delighted, I'm delighted.
“I've always said a fit Andy Carroll is great to have in your pack.”
The Chronicle reported on Tuesday that Carroll was set to extend his stay on Tyneside, with the striker signing a new deal today
Bruce added: “Look, that's why we brought him to the club. He's had a huge influence, not just on the pitch, but what he gives you inside the dressing room.
“Now it's a mature Any Carroll who, let's be fair, he wants Newcastle to do well and when he's like he is today – he's four of five kilos down from what he was a few weeks ago – he looks in good nick.
“Touch wood, I just hope that his ankle stays well and he stays well, and if he does that, we'll all be delighted.”
