Andy Carroll shocked the footballing world when announcing his decision to join Bordeaux in the fourth-tier of French football.
Bordeaux were relegated to the French fourth division National 2 after entering administration due to their financial troubles.
The relegation came just one week after being locked in talks with Liverpool’s owners Fenway Sports Group over a potential purchase of the club but an unexpected withdrawal from the American business firm meant the club had no choice but to accept the relegation.
Despite the hammer blow, ex-Liverpool forward Carroll revealed he had agreed to join the club after leaving Ligue 2 side Amiens.
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Carroll netted two goals on his debut for the club as the former French giants attempt to climb back up the divisions.
Now, the 35-year-old has opened up on his decision to join the project after playing for huge clubs in the Premier League.
“I had the opportunity to do it,” he told Foot Mercato. “I like the idea of this project to go back to Ligue 1 and it’s something I wanted to do… Of course, it’s also a very big club with a huge fan base, and great facilities and it’s something I want to be a part of.”
When asked about the transition to lower league football from the highest level, Carroll added: “Not at all. It’s just football. No matter what level you play at, it’s still football. And it’s something I want to do.
“A few years ago, when I was out of contract and didn’t have a club, I used to play every week with my friends. We would play 11-a-side games on Thursday nights. And playing football is something I’m going to continue to do as much as I can.”
Carroll was plagued by injuries during his time in England and hit out at negative stories in the press regarding his desire to get back to full fitness.
“Yes, there have been a lot of things in the press about my injuries and other things, and it's not helpful,” Carroll added.
“Those who know me know that I didn't want to be injured and I want to be on the pitch to help the team. But the press had been very negative with me saying that I didn't want to be on the pitch and that I would have to leave the club.
“But for me, I've always been motivated by the idea of playing and being on the pitch. And maybe sometimes I was too motivated, I forced myself when I was probably not 100%. I collapsed. It's one of the things you have to experience to learn. But I feel very good now."
Marcus Banks