Andy Carroll, the former Newcastle United and Liverpool striker, is currently earning less than the French minimum wage as he strives to revive his career in France's fourth-tier football with Bordeaux. The club, once a Ligue 1 team, fell into financial difficulties and are now relying on the ex-Liverpool player to lead their attack.

The 36 year old, who was sold by Newcastle for £35million to Anfield, is reportedly earning a mere €1,614 (£1372.55) gross per month in the wine-rich city of Bordeaux. After tax deductions, this amounts to less than €1,400 (£1200), according to L'Equipe.

This figure falls short of the French minimum wage of €1,801.80 (£1532.25) gross for a 35-hour work week, technically making Carroll a part-time employee.

This modest salary mirrors Bordeaux's ongoing financial woes. The club, which has won six French titles, the most recent being in 2009, was demoted to the National 2 following bankruptcy last year.

Despite these challenges, Carroll, who represented England at Euro 2012, has netted eight goals in the current season, with seven league matches still to play, reports the Mirror.

At one point during his tenure at Anfield, Carroll was pocketing £80,000-a-week. However, inconsistent performances led him to clubs such as West Brom and Reading before his move to France.