Andy Carroll reveals sexual assault by 'celebrity mate'

Former England international Andy Carroll has disclosed in his new autobiography that he was the victim of a sexual assault in 2021. The footballer, currently a striker and assistant manager for Dagenham & Redbridge, detailed the incident in his book, 'Owning It', released on Thursday.

Carroll, 37, described the event as 'traumatic' and stated he 'can’t forget' the attack. He recounted that an unnamed 'celebrity mate' of his former partner invited himself to his home to watch a boxing match. Feeling uncomfortable, Carroll went to bed early. He alleges he woke to find the visitor attempting to perform oral sex on him under his bedsheets. After expelling the man from his house, Carroll stated he knocked the attacker unconscious when he attempted to re-enter.

Following the incident, Carroll contacted the police. The attacker was subsequently charged with sexual offences, found guilty, and sentenced to three years in prison. As reported by The Standard, the perpetrator was also placed on the National Sex Offender Register and issued with a ban from entering the village where Carroll resided.

Carroll described his experience of testifying in court as 'humiliating and embarrassing and absolutely horrendous'. He shared that he and his former partner discussed whether to include the assault in his book, ultimately deciding that if speaking about it could assist even one person, it would be worthwhile. He added that the trauma has significantly affected his life and ability to focus on football.

Carroll had a notable career, playing for clubs including Newcastle United and West Ham United. He was once the most expensive British footballer when he transferred to Liverpool for £35 million in 2011. He also earned nine caps for the England national team.