Former English international striker Andy Carroll has shared a deeply personal account of his past, revealing in his new book, Owning it, that he was sexually assaulted in 2021. The 37-year-old forward, currently playing for Dagenham & Redbridge, detailed the incident in the publication, noting that the abuse occurred following a home match while he was still playing for Newcastle United.
Details of the 2021 Incident and Legal Outcome
The assault took place in 2021 during Carroll’s tenure with Newcastle United, stemming from an encounter with an individual within his circle at the time, according to the book. The perpetrator was subsequently prosecuted and sentenced to a three-year prison term, alongside a court-mandated restraining order prohibiting any contact or approach toward Carroll.
Reflecting on Impact and the Decision to Publish
Carroll admitted that he decided to include the disclosure in his book only “at the last minute.” Reflecting on the emotional weight of the revelation, he wrote: “I was sexually assaulted. Now I have said it. It is frightening even to think about it, and until now very few people knew about it.” He added: “It is hard to talk about, but it has made me the person I am today, just as much as all the good things. And if I can help even one person with my story, then it has been worth it.”

Career Background and International Experience
Over a professional career spanning two decades, Carroll has represented nine different clubs. On the international stage, he earned caps for the England national team between 2010 and 2012, featuring in the squad for the 2012 European Championship alongside teammates such as John Terry and Steven Gerrard.
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