Andy Carroll sent to Dubai in bid to recover for Newcastle's derby clash with Sunderland

By COLIN YOUNG
Updated: 22:34 EST, 6 January 2011

Andy Carroll has been sent on a winter break to Dubai by Newcastle boss Alan Pardew in a bid to be fit for next weekend's Wear-Tyne derby.

The England striker has missed Newcastle's last two games with a thigh injury and also misses tomorrow's trip to Stevenage.

A place in the sun: Carroll

But Pardew, who refuses to rule the Gateshead-born talisman out of the Stadium of Light showdown, is hoping the sunshine break will help the striker who has been subject of interest from Tottenham this week.

Pardew said: 'I’ve sent Andy away. He’s had a tough season so I’ve sent him to get some sun for a total rest then he’s going to come back next Wednesday and we’re going to assess him.

'It’s an injury that’s difficult to judge because it’s just a little small tear in his thigh but it’s a big muscle. Striking balls is a big problem but he’s walking and getting around and feeling no problem. It’s when he starts kicking it will cause him a problem and we won’t know his chances until next week.'

Leon Best, who marked his first Barclays Premier League start with a hat-trick against West Ham on Wednesday, is likely to play at Stevenage after shaking off a heel injury.

Tim Krul, Mike Williamson and Nile Ranger are also likely to start against the League Two outfit.