Carroll, set to face Derby County at Pride Park tonight (kick-off 7.45pm) was yesterday charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm over a nightclub incident in December.

The striker – who struck two goals against Cardiff City in Newcastle's last game – will appear before magistrates later this month.

The development comes at a crucial time in United's promotion campaign, with Chris Hughton's league-leading side having six Championship games this month.

But Hughton is confident Carroll's pending court case won't affect him – or his team.

"What he has to do is knuckle down to the business in hand," Hughton said.

"And the business in hand is working hard on the training pitch every day, trying to get selected and when he is selected, putting in a performance which is going to get him into the team the following week.

"It's a learning curve and as with all young players, what they have to do is be focused on their day to day work. That's what will take you where you want to go.

"What he wants to be is a very, very good footballer. His daily work will enable him to get there. This is the best place for him."