Don’t hate me - Andy in Toon plea

CARROLL STINGER ... Andy is worried he will cop flak

ANDY CARROLL has begged Newcastle fans: Don't hate me.

Liverpool's Geordie striker returns to St James' Park tomorrow and said: "If I scored I would not celebrate. I thought I did well for the club when I was there.

"I loved it and have some great memories from playing there."

Tomorrow's clash will be Carroll's first visit to the Toon since his £35million Kop move in January 2011.

The 23-year-old added: "I hope I get a good reception from the fans — they'll get one from me.

"I've always had a good relationship with the Newcastle fans and it stems back to playing for them.

"I still love the club and have a lot of friends at Newcastle. I always want to see them doing well.

"I want to do well for Liverpool but when I come off the pitch, Newcastle is the first score I look for.

"That will always be the case. I want to see them win because I'm a fan."