'My kids thought I was signing for Chelsea!' - Ex-Liverpool star Andy Carroll lift lid on shock transfer after sealing return to England

Carroll, who previously enjoyed spells at Newcastle United, Liverpool, and West Ham United, is returning to England after a brief stint with French fourth-division side Bordeaux. Despite interest from clubs across Europe, Carroll has chosen an unexpected path as he aims to make a meaningful impact on and off the pitch at the Essex-based club.

In classic Carroll fashion, the towering forward brought humour to his transfer announcement.

“My kids thought I was signing for Chelsea — they’ll be in for a shock. It’s a fantastic location and close to my kids, they will be able to come and see me play," he said.

After experiencing life abroad with Bordeaux, Carroll admitted the time had come to settle in a more permanent setting.

“I really enjoyed my time in Bordeaux, but it’s time for me to get settled with my family. I’m hoping my kids will bring their friends to see me play," he said. “I didn’t want to finish playing football, and I’m really excited to get involved in the leadership side and be a player. I’ve got experience in seeing how clubs are run, of all levels. I think I can add value."

Rather than winding down his playing career quietly, Carroll is eager to remain active on the field and help them get promoted.

“My first job is to go in as a player, I want to get them promoted," he said.

“I was offered clubs with a lot more money, but I realised Dagenham was a project that I really wanted to get into. I want to help as many players and staff from my experience and background as possible.

“I was getting offers from clubs in France, Italy and Spain, but I wanted to come home. I could sign for a top club, but me and the managers might not see eye to eye, so I just want to be somewhere I’m going to be happy.”

Despite his high-profile past, Carroll made it clear that football — not finances — has always been the driving force behind his career.

“I’m very fortunate to be a footballer and earn the money that I’ve earned. I’m lucky to get paid for a hobby," he said. "It’s never been about the money for me, I could have signed for a lot more money. I just love playing football.”

Carroll will now work under the guidance of Lee Bradbury, a former Premier League striker himself with experience at clubs like Bournemouth and Manchester City. The pairing brings together two veterans of English football, both aiming to lift Dagenham up the football pyramid.