5 Reasons Why Andy Carroll’s Return Would Be Good For Newcastle (And 5 Why It Wouldn’t)

3. Increased Competition For Places At The Club

One of the problems with Newcastle United for the last couple of seasons has been a lack of squad depth. This has meant that players in possession of the black-and-white jersey have had little to fear with precious few challengers for a starting berth. With Emmanuel Riviere failing to impress, Papiss Cisse and Ayoze Perez were left to hold the fort up front by themselves. Cisse has struggled to stay healthy (or free from suspension) and Perez was used far more in 2014-15 than anyone at the club envisaged upon signing him. Another option was desperately needed, with young Adam Armstrong thrown to the wolves on several occasions. Perez is still learning the English game and needs to bulk up while Cisse is a finisher who was great as a substitute last season but doesn't appear to be reliable every game when given a starting role. Carroll re-signing would keep Cisse on his toes while letting the club use Perez and Riviere in spells to give them more time to learn the ropes of the Premier League.