Former Liverpool defender Gary Gillespie believes that Liverpool striker Andy Carroll should move abroad as opposed to returning to Newcastle United.

The 23-year-old is expected to leave Anfield this summer, with new Reds boss Brendan Rodgers believed to have informed the frontman that he is not part of his plans.

The Magpies, whom Carroll left last year for the Merseyside club for £35m, are believed to be interested in taking the England international on loan.

"It's always difficult going back," Gillespie told talkSPORT. "I don't think I would recommend him to go back to Newcastle - but I do think that is where he will go. He has got a lot of friends up there, obviously his family is up there, and he knows what the football club is about.

"I think the Newcastle fans would take him back into their hearts so I think that is where he will end up but I'd possibly think about moving abroad if I had the opportunity."

While Carroll appears to be open to a temporary move, reports have claimed that Liverpool would prefer a permanent deal.