Reading forward Andy Carroll faced backlash on Twitter after making a joke about Liverpool's 7-0 win over Manchester United.

The 34-year-old started in the Royals' 5-0 defeat to Middlesbrough on Saturday, the fourth time that Paul Ince's men have conceded four or more goals away from home this season.

A popular figure in Berkshire, the fomer England international has scored six goals this season, his best return since 2016/17.

Carroll spent two years with Liverpool, costing £35m in 2011, scoring six goals in 44 appearances.

Jurgen Klopp's side demolished Manchester United on Sunday, perhaps the most eye-catching result of the season so far.

Taking to social media, the North-East native said: "Happens to the best of us."

Seen by more than 200,000 people, it split opinion among the fanbase as some found it disrespectful, while others saw more of the funny side.

Carroll was also a member of the side which lost 7-0 themselves last season, eventual champions Fulham inflicting the club's record home defeat in January 2022.

With news breaking of a potential points deduction, it was not a happy week for Royals fans, who will move to 21st and only six points clear of the relegation zone if the deduction comes into play.