New Reading FC signing Sam Smith is ready to contribute in the club’s quest to win promotion back to the Championship.
The 25-year-old striker was previously with the Royals in the academy system and played 11 senior games before he departed in 2021.
After two years with Cambridge United, Smith now returns to Reading and is eager to make an impact.
Speaking on the decision to make a return to the club, Smith said: “Everyone knows how much this club means to me. It’s something I was always fond of doing (returning) so when the opportunity came I couldn’t turn it down.
“A lot has changed but there are still a lot of familiar faces which is good.
“I spoke with the club and the manager and was reassured that everything was sorted so I wanted to get in as soon as I could.
“I’ve been really impressed, he (Ruben Selles) seems like a very good coach and as a player you know exactly what he wants you to do with the way he plays his system.
“I had to go away and learn to play as a lone striker and learn how to use my body.
“You have to learn the dark side of the game going into the lower leagues and that helps when you get older and more physical.
“I think it’s benefitted me massively and I feel I’m really ready to impact the team and get some goals.”
Smith is confident that the club will bolster the squad before the start of the League One season which kicks off on Saturday, August 5 at home to Peterborough United.
He continued: “It’s obvious we need a lot more players in the door and it’ll allow the manager to have a squad ready for the season.
“League One is a difficult league, there are a lot of good teams that will cause you problems. To have squad depth and everyone in as soon as possible is important and hopefully that will happen.
“One of the most important things after getting relegated is keeping the fans on board. The fans were unbelievable for me and all the young lads growing up at Reading and that’s something we will need this season.
“We can only control what we can on the pitch and as players and fans stick together and what happens above is not in our control.
“I think the club has everything here to get back to the Championship. I know I can do it at this level to be helpful towards the club.”
