Reading have released a mocked up Whatsapp conversation with Andy Carroll which appears to reveal it was the striker's children that chose his unconventional shirt number.
The former Newcastle and Liverpool forward signed for Reading on a short-term deal until January having turned down offers from around the world.
However, social media was aghast after it was revealed Carroll, 33, would wear the No. 2 shirt for the Royals this season.
Andy Carroll has re-joined Reading and has selected a surprising shirt number for his short-term stint
In a video released on Friday, Reading appeared to reveal the extent of the conversations that saw the forward wind up with the No.