Andy Carroll Makes Shock Switch to Non-League Club in £35M Career Twist

Newcastle United favourite Andy Carroll has been announced as both a new signing and investor at semi-professional side Dagenham & Redbridge. The 36-year-old, known for his time with clubs such as Newcastle, Liverpool, and West Ham United, has opted to return to East London—a city he knows well from his days at West Ham.

Carroll’s career highlights include nine international appearances for England and a notable £35 million move to Liverpool from Newcastle in January 2011. His stint at Anfield, however, yielded 11 goals in 58 matches and did not meet expectations, eventually leading him to West Ham.

Upon joining Dagenham, Andy Carroll expressed his enthusiasm: “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. 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.”

Not ready to hang up his boots just yet, Carroll is eager for the dual role: “I didn’t want to finish playing football, and I’m really excited to get involved in the leadership side as well as being a player. I’ve got experience in seeing how clubs are run at all levels. I think I can add value.”

Dagenham & Redbridge welcomed their new star with enthusiasm on social media, stating: “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 announcement comes amid confirmation that an agreement has been reached for a consortium of prominent Qatari investors to acquire 100% ownership of the club.

Interim chairman Youseph Al Sharif is part of this consortium, alongside former Daggers captain Anwar Uddin, who remarked: “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 and Redbridge, and to play a part in helping the club move firmly in the right direction.”