Source: Daily_Mail
Andy Carroll delighted to be handed Newcastle No 9 shirt
Andy Carroll is looking forward to realising his boyhood dream when the new season starts after being handed the famous Newcastle No 9 shirt. [LNB]Carroll scored 19 Championship goals as the Magpies were promoted back to the Premier League and the 24-year-old has been rewarded by manager Chris Hughton. [LNB]The Gateshead-born frontman follows in the footsteps of Jackie Milburn and Alan Shearer and he said: 'It hasn't really sunk in yet, I'm immensely proud and really it's an unbelievable feeling. [LNB] Local hero: Carroll is relishing the chance to pull on the iconic Magpies shirt[LNB]'When you look at the fantastic players down the years who have worn the shirt, it sends shivers down your spine, it's amazing.[LNB] 'Having grown up following and watching the team I'm obviously aware of the great tradition the No 9 shirt holds, it's probably unique in football in that sense and, as I say, to be wearing it, is incredible. [LNB]'Alan Shearer was my idol as a young lad and who would have thought I'd be following in his footsteps?[LNB] 'It's every young Geordie lads' dream to be a Newcastle United No 9 and I'm so lucky to be given that chance. [LNB]'It's an opportunity I relish and intend doing my best to do the shirt proud. 'I'd also like to thank Chris and his staff for the faith they have put in me.' [LNB] Newcastle bad boy Barton insists: I'm as good as any England midfielderNolan: Newcastle are so much brighter 12 months on from Orient woeNewcastle out to beat West Ham, Rangers and Sevilla to BenalouaneNORTHERN EXPOSURE: Newcastle bigmouth Joey Barton tells Fabio Capello: I'm the answer to your problems NEWCASTLE UNITED FC
