STEVE BRUCE hopes striker Andy Carroll wins a new contract at Newcastle.
The 30-year-old signed a one-year pay-as-you-play deal when he rejoined as a free agent last summer.
Steve Bruce has enjoyed watching Andy Carroll make an impact this season
But SunSport understands Carroll can trigger a fresh contract if he plays 20 matches this term.
The Geordie has so far played 11 Premier League games and has made a big impact, even though he has not scored.
Boss Bruce said: “We’d be delighted to tie Andy up. I know there are stipulations in there. I think something triggers it.
“We’ll see how he is. Hopefully, another one triggers in.”
Toon have won six of the 11 games Carroll has featured in, compared to one in seven he has not.
Bruce added: “He’s had an impact that you would want. He’s got a couple of assists in there as well. If he stays well, it can only benefit us all.
“He looks as if he’s getting better, touch wood. I hate to say that but physically he looks better, he looks stronger.
“It’s just a case of staying fit. That’s the big thing and it’s a shame because it has blighted his career.
“Let’s be fair, he was £35million nine years ago, that would probably be £135m today, wouldn’t it?”
Bruce gave his squad Christmas Day off training as a reward for rising to ninth in the table.
Ahead of the Boxing Day visit to Old Trafford, he added: “We travel to Manchester on the night.
“I think it would be unfair of me to bring them in on the morning.
“They’ll enjoy their Christmas morning with their families, then we’re back to work.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
