Former Liverpool striker Andy Carroll has drawn comparisons to Diego Maradona for his latest performance (via TalkSPORT) – but not because he displayed silky skills or dynamic forward play.

While Carroll found the back of the net in his last game for Reading, he was also sent off for a deliberate handball. From a set-piece, the 34-year-old used his fist to deflect the ball beyond the ‘keeper – however, unlike with Maradona’s ‘hand of god’ goal, the referee actually spotted this one.

As such, the lumbering hitman was sent off. It was a baffling decision for such an experienced pro to make – especially when you consider that he was already on a yellow card.

Reading went on to draw 1-1 with Luton in that game – the Royals fans will likely see it as two points lost, rather than a point gained, due to Carroll’s antics.

Additionally, the Royals are still in the relegation zone, but are just a single point from safety. Had they held onto their lead, they would now be 20th in the Championship table.

Carroll played for Liverpool from 2011 to 2013, after signing from Newcastle United for a fee of £35 million. He was generally viewed as a flop, but often proved useful due to his towering height and underrated finishing ability.

Outside of Liverpool, the Gateshead native has also played for clubs such as West Ham, West Brom and Preston North End.