Steve Bruce confirms major Andy Carroll decision ahead of West Brom summer transfer window

West Bromwich Albion will not be extending Andy Carroll's contract beyond the end of the season, it has been revealed.

The former Liverpool striker joined the Baggies on a free transfer in January after his short-term deal with Reading expired. He has since gone on to score three goals in 15 Championship appearances.

Although Carroll has not been hugely prolific in front of goal, he has impressed with his general play in leading the line and has been arguably the team's top performer since arriving as injury cover for Daryl Dike. Albion fans have been vocal about their desire to see the forward remain at the club.

But the 33-year-old's time at the Hawthorns will come to an end when his six-month deal runs out in the summer, West Brom boss Steve Bruce has revealed. The manager says that the decision will create space on the wage bill as they look to strengthen other areas of the team.

“We’ve got two centre forwards, one (Kenneth Zohore) we’ve paid £8million for and the other (Daryl Dike) £7million in January," said Bruce. “They’re both number nines.

"Andy Carroll has done great for us and he’s in better nick now than he’s been for the last few years. He’s done tremendously well but he’s unfortunate that we’ve got two centre forwards who we hope this summer will be fit.

“I think I need to strengthen in other areas rather than at number nine. We need more threat in wide areas, we need midfield players because we’re limited in there for numbers.

“So we have to make tough decisions and believe me that was a really really tough decision because I know how popular Andy was with the fans and how popular he was in the dressing room.

“But I’ve got to think of the overall balance of the squad. His wages will be freed up for