Carroll took a bit of crap, during his early years. I think most supporters love to see local lads doing well, but you will always get a few who will jump on their backs as soon as a mistake is made. Shola (like Shearer) probably lived his childhood dream - playing for the club he supported as a boy, including scoring goals in the Champions League. Perhaps he stayed at the club too long, but he did what many of us would give our right arm for.