Scoring his first England goal in a friendly against Ghana in March 2011 marked a new high-point for Andy Carroll in a rapid rise for the young striker. In 2009/10, Carroll was playing in The Championship for his home town club Newcastle, firing them to promotion with a combination of strength, aerial prowess and sharp shooting.

Often compared to striking legend Alan Shearer (who also wore Umbro Speciali boots), Carroll continued his scoring form as Newcastle returned to the Premier League in the 2010/11 season, and began to gain recognition from the senior England squad. In January 2011, a shock move to Liverpool made 22 year-old Carroll the most expensive British player of all time, with Carroll celebrating with that well-taken goal in his first England appearance since the move.