Former England striker Andy Carroll has revealed that he was sexually assaulted by a male celebrity at his home in 2021, saying the experience remains traumatic and continues to affect him.
The 37-year-old footballer made the disclosure in his new autobiography, Owning It, which was released on Thursday. Carroll said he decided to include the incident in the book only at the last minute after lengthy discussions with his girlfriend, Lou Teasdale.
According to Carroll’s account, the incident occurred after he had played for Newcastle United. An unnamed celebrity friend of his former partner had been invited to his home to watch a boxing match and stay overnight.
Carroll said he had previously felt uncomfortable around the man. After having a few drinks, he went to bed but later woke to find the visitor allegedly attempting to sexually assault him under the bedsheets.
Carroll said he threw the man out of the house and struck him when he attempted to return. He then contacted police and recalled breaking down in tears following the incident.
The man denied the allegations but was subsequently prosecuted and convicted of sexual offences. According to Carroll’s account, he was sentenced to three years in prison, placed on the National Sex Offender Register and prohibited from entering the village where Carroll lived.
Carroll also described giving evidence in court as an extremely difficult experience. He said the trauma affected different areas of his life, including his ability to concentrate on football, and that its psychological impact had not disappeared.
The former Newcastle and Liverpool striker said he had kept the experience largely private before deciding to discuss it publicly. He explained that sharing his story could potentially help other people who have experienced sexual assault.
Carroll currently plays for and co-owns National League South club Dagenham & Redbridge. He has also represented England and played for several clubs during a professional career spanning around two decades.