Pardew - Carroll wanted Liverpool move (AUDIO)

It was a hectic day in the North-East as the January transfer window drew to a close, with Andy Carroll leaving Newcastle United in an astonishing £35m move to Liverpool.

The 22-year old, having played just half a season in the top flight, moved to Anfield late on Monday under questionable circumstances, after reportedly handing in a transfer request at St James` Park. However, Carroll insisted he was forced to make that request by chairman Derek Llambias when the offer for him reached astronomical levels.

However the club deny it was them who instigated the move, saying Carroll and his agent discussed the matter before putting in a formal request which enabled the 6ft 3in striker to replace Fernando Torres.

Speaking at a news conference, initially scheduled for yesterday before being delayed and then cancelled, Alan Pardew says he`s gutted to have lost the striker, whilst the lack of time available meant Newcastle United struggled to find a replacement.

Stephen Ireland was brought in on loan from Aston Villa, but two bids to bring Charles N`Zogbia back to the club from Wigan failed.

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