Arsenal star Declan Rice reacts to Andy Carroll’s message after shock transfer

Former Premier League striker Andy Carroll completed a surprising move to National League South side Dagenham and Redbridge on July 12th. The 36-year-old, who previously played for Newcastle United, West Ham, and Liverpool, most recently featured for Bordeaux in France before their relegation amid financial issues.

Carroll shared photos of himself and his children at his new club on Instagram on July 14th with the caption "This one is for you kids." This post received a like from Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice, who is preparing for the new Premier League season with his club.

Despite dropping to the sixth tier of English football, Carroll demonstrated his goalscoring ability last season by scoring 11 goals in 21 appearances for Bordeaux in the French fourth tier. Furthermore, he scored 9 goals in 30 Championship appearances for Reading during the 2022/23 season.

Dagenham and Redbridge, who finished 21st in the National League last term, were relegated to the National League South (sixth tier). It is anticipated that Carroll's presence and proven goalscoring record, even at higher levels recently, will significantly boost the London club's chances of securing promotion back to the fifth tier immediately.