Andy Carroll's return to English football proved a chastening experience as his new club Dagenham and Redbridge fell to a 5-1 defeat against League Two side Crawley Town in a pre-season friendly on Tuesday night.
The 36-year-old former Liverpool and Newcastle striker, who recently joined the National League South outfit as both player and part-owner, came off the bench just after an hour with his side trailing 2-1.
Despite putting himself about in typical fashion, Carroll could not prevent the sixth-tier side from conceding three more goals in a heavy home defeat at Victoria Road.
Adding insult to injury, it was an unnamed player listed as 'Trialist B' who stole the spotlight with a late double for the visitors, completing the rout in the closing stages.
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|Andy Carroll signed for Dagenham and Redbridge this month in a shock move
Carroll managed just one half-chance during his cameo appearance, a glancing header that failed to trouble the Crawley defence.
The former England international, who once commanded a British record £35 million transfer fee when moving from Newcastle to Liverpool in 2011, was given a warm reception by the Dagenham faithful who cheered his every touch despite the disappointing scoreline.
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Speaking after the match, Carroll remained upbeat about his new venture.
He said: "It was brilliant!
"As soon as I stepped on the pitch, as soon as I walked out, they were singing my name and cheering.
"It is one of those feelings that you cannot explain."
The striker, who has acquired a minority stake in the club as part of his three-year deal, emphasised his commitment to the project.
"I am investing my time, money and giving everything I can on and off the pitch to try and produce something great," Carroll said.
"I think it's something that could be fantastic."
Carroll revealed he had turned down more lucrative offers from clubs across Europe to join Dagenham, citing family reasons for his decision to remain in England.
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|Andy Carrol remained upbeat despite losing on his debut
"I was getting offers from clubs in France, Italy and Spain, but I wanted to come home," he explained.
The striker, who has three children with former The Only Way is Essex star Billi Mucklow, added: "It's a fantastic location and close to my kids, they will be able to come and see me play."
"My kids thought I was signing for Chelsea — they'll be in for a shock," he joked.
Dagenham begin their National League South campaign on 9 August at home to Ebbsfleet United.
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