Carroll happy at partnering Owen

Carroll came through the Newcastle academy set-up

Newcastle United striker Andy Carroll admitted he is living a dream playing alongside boyhood hero Michael Owen in the Magpies' first-team.

Carroll, 20, has been a recent feature in Joe Kinnear's first-team picture and the young forward enjoyed Saturday's outing against Hull in the FA Cup.

"Every time, even in training it's a big shock to be playing with Michael Owen," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"It was great to get my first start of the season."

Capped by England under-19s, Gateshead-born Carroll has made 17 appearances for the club since signing professional terms in July 2006.

He enjoyed a spell at Preston in the first part of last season, where he scored his first career goal and made 12 appearances.