Yesterday turned out to be an excellent showing for ponytail-wielding towering number 9s, albeit at different ends of the pitch.
Andy Carroll
The first came via Andy Carroll, the former Liverpool striker who has unfortunately faced a career downturn.
Big Andy has gone from European football in front of the Kop to a fight for survival in the second division with Reading. After being released by Newcastle, the English striker agreed to 2 month deal with Reading FC at just £1,000 a week.
These heroics against the Baggies however will put to bed any doubts over the Englishman’s commitment despite the low wages.
Reading lost away to West Brom following a 62nd-minute goal by Callum Robinson, however, the deficit could have easily been more had it not been for Carroll’s intervention.
The 32-year-old rose the highest to head the ball away following a corner from West Brom. In the process, his momentum sent him back into his own net, while the ball fell kindly for Robison who unleashed a volley on the follow-up.
A goal looked certain but Carroll heroically denied Robinson, he got back up on his feet in a flash and ferociously headbutted the ball away from goal.
Fans loved this from Big Andy and it certainly cemented the striker’s willingness to put his body on the line, despite his low wages.
Andy Carroll, how have you managed that 😳😳😳 #ReadingFC #WBA pic.twitter.com/WSk4KwMrOL
— 106 Chat (@106Chat) December 11, 2021
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
The other instance comes to us via the immortal Swedish International who continues to prove that age is merely a number.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic recused a point for the Rossoneri in classic Ibra fashion.
Milan’s game against Udinese offered an opportunity for them to extend their lead at the top of Seria A to 4 points.
They were unable to capitalize however as they conceded a goal in the 17th minute. All hope seemed lost but up stepped Zlatan.
Executing an acrobatic effort in very little space, Ibra ensured Milan walk away with at least a point. The goal also brought up a historic milestone for the Swede, it was his 300th goal in Europe’s top five leagues.
— Juventus are a loyal club (@Ciro854) December 11, 2021
Not to sound reactionary but has anybody noticed that both number 9’s have similar hairstyles? Are ponytails the secret to their success?
