Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has played down speculation linking his club with a move for Andy Carroll.

The England international left the Sports Direct Arena in January 2011 for Liverpool.

However, following the appointment of Brendan Rodgers to the Anfield helm, Carroll's future with the Merseysiders has been thrown into doubt.

When asked about the possibility of Carroll rejoining the Magpies, Pardew insisted that he was unsure as to whether or not there was any truth in the reports.

"I just think there is a lot of talk about players when new managers go in and situations go cloudy," he told reporters.

"He did a terrific job here and I've always supported him. He's going to be a great player but where he treads the boards we will have to wait and see."

AC Milan and West Ham United have also been credited with a loan interest in Carroll.