Former Reading FC striker Andy Carroll has opened up about life in France after departing England last year.
Carroll left the Royals early into last season’s League One campaign, noting a change in style after Ruben Selles had replaced Paul Ince.
He joined Ligue 2 side Amiens where he netted four times in 32 games. He then moved across to Bordeaux in the summer with the former French champions rebuilding in the fourth tier after being relegated two divisions after going into administration.
The former England international has made a superb start to life in Bordeaux and has scored seven times in six matches.
Speaking to the Independent about life in France, Carroll said: “In France I live a much easier, simpler life.
“People recognise me in the street but respect me. That’s key to my happiness.
“I can go back to being Andy, the boy from the north of England. Not the Premier League star I was, if I ever was.
“It would be unfair to say that popularity has taken more from me than it has given me, but sometimes it’s hard to manage those situations. Fame has its dark sides.”
Carroll had two spells with Reading, first on a short-term deal under Veljko Paunovic before he re-joined the side under the manager of Paul Ince and was coached by Selles for a short time.
He scored a total of nine goals in 32 league games for the Royals.
Now 36-years-old, Carroll is hoping to continue for a few more years.
He continued: ““I still love football like on the first day because it keeps me alive. It’s been my dream since the first time I saw a match.
“I know the end is coming, and the more it does, the more I try to enjoy it. I value every minute I play or train.
“I certainly feel very much in tune with Bordeaux. Even if it is in the fourth division, the club is now going to try to regain its greatness and in my case I have never given up. We have a lot of things in common, and subconsciously that probably also attracted me to wear this shirt.”
To read the full interview, visit: https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/andy-carroll-bordeaux-newcastle-liverpool-b2646375.html
