Former England striker Andy Carroll has publicly revealed he was sexually assaulted in 2021. The 37-year-old detailed the traumatic incident and its lasting impact in his new autobiography, 'Owning It'.
Carroll said the assault happened at his home during his second spell at Newcastle United. A friend of his former partner was later jailed for three years for the crime. Carroll testified in court, a process he described as "humiliating and embarrassing and absolutely horrendous."
The lasting impact
In his book, Carroll writes openly about the assault's profound effect. "What happened to me affected every facet of my life," he said. "I’d think about it every day, making it difficult to focus on anything else, including football … The trauma of what happened to me hasn’t gone away."
He was automatically granted anonymity as a victim of sexual assault but has chosen to waive it to share his story. Carroll is currently a player and co-owner of National League South side Dagenham & Redbridge.
A notable England career
Carroll won nine caps for England between 2010 and 2012, scoring two goals. His most famous moment in an England shirt was a powerful headed goal against Sweden at Euro 2012. His club career spanned nine teams over two decades, most notably a then-British record £35 million move from Newcastle to Liverpool in 2011.
The news comes as the current England squad prepares for a key home fixture against Spain. Gareth Southgate's side sits top of their World Cup qualifying group with seven points from three games. Carroll's disclosure highlights the personal challenges players can face away from the pitch, even as the national team enjoys a strong run of form with four wins in its last five matches.
This story first appeared at The Guardian Football
