Andy Carroll bailed over assault charges

Wearing jeans and a dark hooded top, the Newcastle United striker was driven away from Tynedale Magistrates' Court in Hexham, Northumberland, in a people carrier with blacked-out windows.

He was charged with assaulting Laurie Henderson, an ex-girlfriend, at her home in Ponteland, Northumberland, sometime after 4.30am on Sunday.

Following an hour-long hearing he was granted conditional bail to live with captain Kevin Nolan at his family home, also in Ponteland, a 15-minute walk from the complainant's address.

Magistrates agreed Carroll does not have to stay overnight at Mr Nolan's home when Newcastle are playing.

The player was told he must not contact any prosecution witnesses.

Carroll, who gave his address as the Jesmond Dene Hotel, Newcastle, will deny the offence and claims self-defence, the court heard.

The case was adjourned until 10 January.

Meanwhile, Newcastle manager Chris Hughton has assured Nolan he remains part of his plans despite leaving him out on Saturday. The 28-year-old midfielder was conspicuous by his absence from the 18 for the weekend's 2-2 Barclays Premier League draw with Wigan at St James' Park.

It was the first time Nolan had not started a league game this season after playing a major role in the club's return to the top flight in the last campaign, during which he scored 18 goals. However, Hughton said: "It was my decision to rest him and I am quite sure he will come back stronger and fitter."