Fans are shocked at Andy Carroll’s squad number after signing for Reading

Fans are shocked to find out what squad number Andy Carroll has chosen upon his move to Championship side Reading.

33-year-old Carroll signed for the Royals this week on a short term deal that will run until January. This will be Carroll’s second spell with the club, having played for them during the 21/22 season. 

In his first spell, Carroll made eight appearances and scored two goals. 

Upon signing this week, the former Liverpool record signing was asked to pick his squad number. 

He was given the options of 2, 20, 26 and 27. To the shock of the football world, Carroll chose to wear the no.2 jersey. 

The no.2 shirt is often associated with defenders. 

Carroll’s rather strange number choice has not gone down well with some, fans were quick to react on social media. 

One fan simply said: “This should be ILLEGAL.” 

Another tweeted: “That's one of the funniest squad number reveals I've seen. Dreadful, but funny.” 

A third fan added: “This cannot be allowed surely, the erosion of the sanctity of the modern game in front of our eyes.... what next?” 

Upon his return to the club, Carroll spoke to Reading’s official website, expressing his delight. 

He said: “I’m glad to be back here, it’s a great feeling. 

“Discussions started with the club six weeks ago so I have been just keeping myself fit and waiting to be ready to come in and train and hopefully sign the contract and I’ve done that now.

“I had been on the phone to the manager a couple of times, and he wanted me in the building a little earlier than this but I wanted to make sure I was fully fit and ready to go and be able to come straight in and be on the pitch.”

Carroll added: “So I came in on Monday and have been here training since then and I feel great.

“I loved it the first time and I love walking back into the building and driving down here, it’s a brilliant place.

“Half the lads are still here and all the staff behind the scenes, it is a brilliant place to be, and I am delighted to sign back here.”