Bruce confirms departure of Newcastle striker Carroll

Steve Bruce has confirmed the decision to let Andy Carroll leave Newcastle for a second time.

The English striker is available on a free transfer after his contract at St James’ Park expired recently.

Newcastle didn’t offer him a new deal following a disappointing second spell at the club.

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Carroll managed just one goal in 18 Premier League appearances last season.

When asked about the decision, Bruce told Sky Sports: “I think Andy thinks it’s time that he goes and plays.

“I wish him the best of luck with it, he’s done well for me but I think he’s got it in his mind that he wants to go and play somewhere and enjoy his last few years.”

The target man leaves having scored 34 goals in 134 games for the club.

His best season in the top flight came in 2010/11 when he registered 11 goals in 19 games, earning him a move to Liverpool.

Bruce can already rely on Joelinton and Dwight Gayle up front, as well as star player Callum Wilson.

The latter will wear the number nine shirt next term after Joelinton opted to change to number seven.

Bruce also provided an update on the Magpies’ summer transfer pursuits.

The manager said: “All of the decisions of getting a 25-man squad together is what it is all about now.

“All the work begins, we have got irons in the fire for two or three things and we will see what that develops.

“Florian Lejeune is away talking with the Spanish club where he was on loan last year so something might develop there.

“I am sure there will be a little bit of movement. The transfer market has been extremely quiet, and I expect it to be that way, but it will hot up a little bit I am sure.”

30-year-old defender Lejeune is close to joining Alaves on a permanent deal.

The main aim for Newcastle appears to be re-signing Joe Willock from Arsenal.

The midfielder became a hit at St James’ Park with eight goals in 14 appearances last term.

The loan spell included a run of seven goals in consecutive league matches, which helped to push Newcastle into a 12th-placed finish.

However, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is keen to retain the 21-year-old.

He said earlier this month that Willock remains part of his plans at the Emirates.