YANN KERMORGANT has revealed that he plans to retire at the end of next season.
The French striker, 35, put pen-to-paper on a new contract last month, which expires in June 2018.
And Kermorgant, who has been a key part of Reading’s play-off push all season, says no matter what happens, that will be the last contract he signs.
“Next season will be my last season,” he said.
“I am sure. Even if I score 20 goals next season.
“That’s why I would love to get the promotion and finish with my last one in the Premier League.
“It would be a dream. But whatever happens it will be my last season.
WIN TICKETS TO READING v BLACKBURN
“I think you have to be mentally ready to say ‘this is my last year, then I will go and start another life’.
“I think I am ready for that next season. It’s been a long time now and I’ve been away from my family and my friends. It is not easy not only for me but also my wife.
“After football I think I will go into investment.”
In his 15 years as a professional, Kermorgant has had just two shots at top flight football.
The first came during a loan spell with French side Arles-Avignon, before beginning the last campaign at Bournemouth, only to leave and join the Royals midway through the campaign.
“When we got promoted with Bournemouth, I had a great season in the Championship,” said Kermorgant.
“I knew I would not be the main striker in the Premier League because of my age and you’ve got more competition for your place.
“But I did not expect not to be given any chance. I didn’t start one game, not even the first one.
“It was difficult to take, but that’s football and we know how ruthless it can be.
“To be in a position where I could get back in the Premier League now at almost 36, that would be amazing.”
After beating Sheffield Wednesday 2-0 before the international break, Reading remain in the play-off spots and know victory over Leeds United on Saturday at Madejski Stadium (5.30pm) will lift them up to fourth.
“We all know it’s a test,” said Kermorgant.
“We know we could maybe play each other in the first game of the play-offs if we stay in this position.
“It will be good mentally to get the win at home and for them I think they will try to do the same.
“We feel very confident at home and with two games coming at home this week (with Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday), it is really good for us.”
Reading could come up against the Championship’s top scorer Chris Wood, who has netted 24 goals, when Leeds visit Berkshire.
And Kermorgant says he has been impressed with his striking counterpart, but says the visitors could struggle if the New Zealander picks up an injury.
“I think he’s done very well if you look at the amount of goals he’s scored,” said Kermorgant.
“He’s been a huge part of the success of Leeds.
“It’s a bit of a risk as well because if he gets injured I think they are in big trouble because they’ve got no-one else really who can be a threat up front.
“I prefer our situation where goals can come from everywhere and our style of play rather than them who rely so much on one player up front.”
He continued: “I don’t think he’s been great in every game, but when he’s on fire he scores one, two or three goals.
“That’s good, but sometimes I think he’s been nowhere near good enough in the game and they couldn’t make the difference.”
