David Gold tonight paid a massive tribute to Andy Carroll declaring: “He deserves every bit of success he gets – he’s been to hell and back twice and now looks the absolute real deal.”

But the Irons co chairman admitted that he felt nauseous when the striker went full throttle in trying to close down a Konchesky clearance and flew straight into the photographers’ pit in front of the Alpari Stand.

Gold – speaking exclusively to ClaretandHugh said:  “I was sure he had done himself some serious damage and felt totally sick when I saw him fly into that pit. I think we all felt that he’d be lifted out damaged.

“But when he popped up totally unharmed the relief was almost tangible. I personally breathed a huge sigh of relief.”

Gold said that trying to put oneself in AC’s position over the last year or so would be impossible as the hell he’s been through is almost “indescribable.”

To have had months and months out with his problem, to work his way through it, make a successful return only to go through much the same with his ankle is totally horrible.

“So watching him score that goal and his general performance was quite brilliant. He had the pace to get onto the back pass, aqccelarate away and score a fabulous goal. One on ones are desperately hard. I’ve seen many of them missed.

“But Andy made it look the simplest thing in the world. I knew then that Andy Carroll was back fully fit and I’m thrilled for him. He deserves everything he gets now – nobody deserves it more.”