The youngster has added more pressure on the Toon boss by putting in another excellent performance on Sunday, while Shola Ameobi and Michael Owen sat out the match (against Juventus) because of injury.
Owen and new signing Mark Viduka have both told the media they "cannot wait to get the partnership started", which has not gone down too well with Oba Martins, who obviously sees himself as first choice.
With Owen and Ameobi yet to prove they can stay fit after serious injuries, and Viduka said to be a "fair weather" player - not too happy in the clarts in winter - could we see Martins and Carroll lead the line?
Martins was delighted to see young Carroll score against Juventus on Sunday after coming off the bench for Albert Luque.
Carroll Puts Allardyce On The Spot
Martins: "I was so pleased to see Andy score. It's hard when you are a young player to come in and impress, but he has done it.
"I am happy to look after him and help him as a young player.
"He is still just 18 and so you have to do that.
However, if Alan Smith signs from Man Utd (as reported today), we can see Carroll starting the season in the CHampionship ... for sure.