Andy Carroll makes surprise return to English football in sixth tier as player AND investor

Former England forward Andy Carroll has been unveiled as a new player AND investor at sixth tier club Dagenham and Redbridge.

The ex-Newcastle and Liverpool forward, 36, had been playing in the French fourth tier with fallen giants Bordeaux, but he has now swapped his French life for a return to east London, where he previously played for West Ham.

Carroll won nine caps for England, scoring twice, and was infamously signed by Liverpool from Newcastle for £35million in January 2011. Things didn't work out for him at Anfield though, and he left the Reds for West Ham after 11 goals in 58 appearances.

Carroll said: “I’m really excited to get started with Dagenham. My kids thought I was signing for Chelsea — they’ll be in for a shock. It’s a fantastic location and close to my kids, they will be able to come and see me play.

READ MORE: Transfer news LIVE: Arsenal receive Gyokeres update, Liverpool get Isak hint, Man Utd move

READ MORE: Crystal Palace drop clear Marc Guehi hint amid Liverpool transfer links

“I really enjoyed my time in Bordeaux but it’s time for me to get settled with my family. I’m hoping my kids will bring their friends to see me play.

“I didn’t want to finish playing football and I’m really excited to get involved in the leadership side and be a player. I’ve got experience in seeing how clubs are run, of all levels. I think I can add value."

Dagenham announced Carroll's arrival in a social media video, saying: "It's not every day that a club can announce a new investor, a new kit and a new star striker all in the same day, but this isn't just anyone. Andy Carroll is a Dagger!"

The move comes on same day that the Daggers announced that terms have been agreed for the sale of the club to a consortium featuring 'prominent Qatari investors' who have bought 100 per cent of the club.

Interim chairman Youseph Al Sharif is joined in the consortium by former Daggers captain Anwar Uddin, who said: “I consider it an absolute privilege to return to the club after such a memorable spell as a player. I’m genuinely excited to reconnect with the fans and everyone associated with Dagenham & Redbridge, and to play a part in helping the club move firmly in the right direction.”

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.