[Mighty T.A.L.]

Carroll joins Preston

Newcastle striker Andy Carroll has joined Preston on loan and he claims he turned other clubs down in order to move to Deepdale.

The 18-year-old has agreed a temporary six-month contract with the Championship outfit as manager Paul Simpson looks to bolster his strike options.

Carroll, who has made seven first-team appearances for Newcastle, has admitted he did not hesitate in joining Preston.

"I was given a few clubs to choose from, but when I was looking at them Preston looked like the right move," Carroll told Preston's official website.

"They seemed like the right team for me and I thought that I'd fit in well.

Delighted

"There's a few good players here and hopefully I can get on well with them.

"Obviously I'm delighted with the move and I just want to play some games and get some goals under my belt.

"I hope I get some goals down here so that I can show everyone that I can do it."

Carroll could make his first Preston appearance in Tuesday night's Carling Cup fixture with Morecambe.

"I'd just like to play my best all the time and play every week," Carroll added.

"It would be a great start to get a goal against Morecambe and I just hope that I can get on, play well, and win the game."

Skysports