The 25-year-old scored his first goals of the campaign on Sunday ... four months into the campaign.
But the injury-prone striker is always one tackle away from another spell on the sidelines.
His appearance record is shocking, considering the money that has been spent on him.
Sam Allardyce's side remain in the top four and Carroll believes they should now be considered contenders.
Andy Carroll: "I think there is no limit, we can go all the way to the top.
"We have a great squad and I can't say we are going to give up now we are in the top three, we have got a great team and we can go all the way.
"I think with the team we have got and the manager, the way he is playing and coaching everyone, it is fantastic and I don't think we will be giving up at all.
"I have been out for a long time and the last couple of games I've been playing I haven't been fully fit.
"There have been a lot of injuries and I was put in unexpectedly really and played a couple of 90 minutes before I was fully fit.
"Now I'm feel good and strong and I can put myself about a bit more.
"It is always easier (to come back into the side) when you have got a big squad. You are not relying on one player; we have a big squad and all quality players that can come in.
"That is why the players who are not playing are disappointed and the players who are in are putting the performances in to not be left out."