5 English players who should consider moving abroad

#1 Andy Carroll

Carroll could wave farewell to England and seek a new opportunity abroad

It has come as a surprise to everyone to see Andy Carroll's name linked with a shock transfer to Chelsea this January. The big front man has struggled to get a good run in the West Ham team since signing for them in 2012.

He's yet another sad example of an English talent being plagued by problematic injuries. Carroll hasn't had a great season since his breakout for Newcastle all the way back in 2010 but the ability is definitely there: when fit his size and power are a handful for any defence to cope with.

It would be interesting to see Carroll make a move to the Bundesliga, as it could just help instigate a revival for him.

There are numerous examples in recent years of players who have struggled in England but thrived upon arrival in Germany - his current teammate Javier Hernandez, Anthony Modeste at Blackburn are two prime examples.

There's no reason as to why Carroll could not be successful himself, as he'd be playing in a league where free-flowing play is encouraged and his powerful presence could dominate the league's defenders if given the opportunity in a team who provides him with adequate service regularly.

Stefan Kiessling and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar have found great success recently, while the possibility of new surroundings helping to bring out the best in players could prove beneficial for Carroll in this instance.

At 29, he's still got a few years left and if he stays injury-free, there's no reason why he cannot flourish away from home comforts - where there would be less pressure on him to perform too, given his injury record.

He's got a refreshing mix of good skill with the ball at his feet, especially for a big man, as well as aerial ability to rival any defensive powerhouse, so a move away from England could work wonders for Carroll in future.