I would take Pearcey's assessment over most others on here. At least he has watched him recently, and more than just a few highlights clips on Quest.

If Carroll was available on the same basis (fitness, pay etc) as for Reading last season it would be madness not to take him. With five subs having the skill, experience and presence of Andy Carroll as a second half impact sub would be excellent. If on the same limited pay as at Reading it shouldn't block the signing of two other strikers either - the plan for one on a fee and one on loan as confirmed by Mehmet Dalman.

But it's all pointless speculation isn't it? Nathan Blake was probably foolish to do his ITK 'reveal' after the Norwich match and is probably embarrassed now. The club and Carroll's agent (or 'sources close to him') have denied the story.