Ex-England striker Carroll reveals he was sexually assaulted in 2021

Dubai: Former Liverpool footballer Andy Carroll has disclosed he was sexually assaulted by a male celebrity in 2021, describing the experience as "traumatic" and stating he is still dealing with its aftermath. The 37-year-old revealed the incident in his newly released autobiography, "Owning It". He decided to include the account at the last minute after extensive talks with his girlfriend, Lou Teasdale.

Carroll recounted the incident occurring after a Newcastle United match in an unfamiliar location. His former girlfriend had invited the celebrity and asked him to include him in the plans. Carroll admitted he had previously found the man unsettling, but upon having a few drinks, he went to bed. Later, the man allegedly attempted to sexually assault him under the bedcovers. Carroll threw the assailant out and struck him when he tried to re-enter the house.

He then contacted the police and was emotionally supported by his children's nanny. The man was charged with sexual offences, sentenced to three years in prison, and placed on the National Sex Offender Register. Carroll described the court proceedings as "humiliating and embarrassing" and kept the incident private for a long time.

Now, he aims to share his story to help others and claim ownership of his experience, rather than allowing the trauma to control him. Carroll now plays for Dagenham & Redbridge Football Club in the National League South.