Howey became an Englandf international when he changed his game to 'stopping' goals, rather than 'scoring' them.
And having scored a brace for England Under-21s last week, Carroll is tipped for full international stardom.
Andy Carroll: “I started as a striker when I was a kid.
“But then when I came to Newcastle’s Academy there were so many strikers – and I was left-footed so I got put at the back!
“I stayed there for a couple of seasons.
“But I showed my colours in training and started scoring goals and they gave me a chance up front.
“I have done some growing since I was a kid, obviously.
“And they did put me as a centre-back a few times, but I always thought that striker has been my position.
“When I was younger one of the Academy coaches moved me to defence – I can’t even remember who it was I have been here so long and I’ve had so many!
“There was no decision for me – I always wanted to be a centre-forward, and if people think I’m an old-fashioned sort then fine.
“The club found me and scouted me as a striker so it has worked out really well.
“Sometimes I don’t know why they put me at the back, maybe they thought I wasn’t good enough.
“But I caught the eye in training so won my place back.”