'In France, I lead a much easier, much simpler life'

Former Premier League star Andy Carroll speaks to Dani Gil about his topsy-turvy career, and his new start at Bordeaux

Used to living in a bubble, flattered by some and questioned by others, Andy Carroll went to France in search of becoming a normal person again. Now, in Bordeaux, he walks with his children, goes out to dinner without having to disguise himself, talks to his neighbours as one of them and nobody interferes in his private life.

“In France I live a much easier, simpler life,” he says. “People recognise me in the street but respect me. That’s key to my happiness. I can go back to being Andy, the boy from the north of England. Not the Premier League star I was, if I ever was.

“It would be unfair to say that popularity has taken more from me than it has given me, but sometimes it’s hard to manage those situations. Fame has its dark sides,” he reflects in this exclusive interview in The Independent.

Much more mature as he approaches 36, Carroll is clear about his priorities. “I still love football like on the first day because it keeps me alive. It’s been my dream since the first time I saw a match. I know the end is coming, and the more it does, the more I try to enjoy it. I value every minute I play or train.”

However, he is clear that he still has years left in his career: “I hope to make it to 40,” he says with a smile, convinced that he has made good decisions in recent years. “I have never let money be the main reason I played football. Especially not now, when it costs me more in rent than my salary,” he admits.

Despite having dizzying offers from Saudi Arabia last summer, Carroll wanted to stay close to his children and commit to a project in which he would feel important and be able to help. Bordeaux, six times champions of France, were plunged into administration in the summer and have started anew in the fourth tier.