It may seem frivolous to us. Meaningless. Just a number. But to many footballers, it's clear the squad number they wear in action means an awful lot.
You only need to look at the way plenty of players will covet their favourite number when they switch clubs and how thankful they are when a current holder gives it up for them. In a modern age where a personal brand is vital, an iconic shirt number is a great way to establish one. CR7. DB23. RioFerdy5.
Numbers mean a hell of a lot to a hell of a lot of players and Manchester United have experienced first-hand how taking a star's favourite jersey away can have a calamitous impact. In his first season at Old Trafford, with the No.9 on his back, Anthony Martial was excellent. Despite being so young and with such a hefty price tag on his head, the Frenchman bagged 17 goals and provided a further 10 assists.
