Andy Carroll reveals traumatic sexual assault in new autobiography
Andy Carroll, the former Newcastle United and England striker, has revealed that he was sexually assaulted in a traumatic attack a few years ago. The Andy Carroll sexual assault disclosure appears in his new autobiography, as reported by Chronicle Live.
Carroll admits the experience is something he still finds difficult to discuss. He explains why he almost left it out of the book altogether.
“Other things I’d quite like to forget but can’t. Something happened to me a few years ago that was so traumatic I only decided to include it in this book at the very last minute.”
Autobiography details and partner discussions behind disclosure
Carroll says he weighed up the decision carefully with his partner, Lou Teasdale, before deciding the account should stay in the finished book. Very few people close to him knew about the assault before now.
“I was sexually assaulted. There I said it. Scary to even think about. Only a few people knew about it before now. Me and Lou spent a lot of time discussing whether to mention it in this book or not.”
He also describes putting off telling his publisher about the late addition. Sharing it, he says, took real courage but felt necessary.
“I avoided my publisher for so long that they probably suspected I got cold feet. Scary to talk about. But it’s made me the person I am today as much as any of the good stuff.”
Career context and current role at Dagenham & Redbridge
Away from the Andy Carroll sexual assault disclosure, Carroll remains well known to Newcastle United supporters from his time as a striker at St James’ Park. He now plays for National League South side Dagenham & Redbridge. He also serves as assistant manager. Combining playing duties with coaching responsibilities at the East London club.
The National League South promises a different rhythm to the top-flight football he once played, but Carroll has embraced both the pitch and the touchline in his new setting. His current chapter reflects how far some former Magpies have travelled since leaving Tyneside. Readers can revisit a recent former Newcastle United player move and a separate major transfer move involving ex-Magpies covered elsewhere on this site.
Support resources and upcoming book publication details
Carroll says his motivation for speaking out is to help anyone who has been through something similar. He hopes his honesty encourages others to talk about their own experiences.
“And if me talking about it helps just one person then good. It will have been worth it.”
Anyone affected by sexual assault can seek confidential support and advice from established survivor support services. The account features in Carroll’s new autobiography. Offering a fuller picture of his life on and off the pitch.
