Andy Carroll reveals sexual assault by male celebrity in autobiography

Andy Carroll has revealed that he was sexually assaulted by a male celebrity in 2021. The former England footballer, who is now at non-league Dagenham and Redbridge, made the admission in his new autobiography, published today. He said he wrote about the attack at the last minute after discussing it with his girlfriend.

The book includes a deeply personal passage in which Carroll writes: 'I was sexually assaulted... There, I said it. Scary to even think about and only a few people knew about it before now.' He added that the trauma has not gone away and that he is still coping with it every day by owning what happened rather than trying to bury it.

Carroll became the most expensive player in English football history when he signed for Liverpool for £35 million in 2011. He says the attack happened during his second spell at Newcastle United. It took place at the home he shared with his then partner, Billi Mucklow, while she was away. His abuser was a friend of hers who was staying over and assaulted him while he was sleeping, according to the account.

The attacker, who is not named, was later found guilty of sex offences. Carroll described giving evidence at the trial as horrendous.

One charity that works with survivors of sexual abuse praised Carroll's bravery. It said his decision to speak out could lead to more men seeking help. 'Andy Carroll speaking out today is going to change some men's lives in the next 24 hours, the next 48 hours,' the charity said. Campaign groups have welcomed his openness.

Carroll was due to attend a book signing and a Q&A session at his club tonight, but the event was cancelled earlier today. He only decided to go public about the assault at the last minute. He said what happened to him affected every facet of his life.