The Royals have added Jacqueline Burns, Lauren Wade and Charlie Wellings to their squad ahead of the new Women’s Super League season.
Goalkeeper Burns joins on the back of a UEFA Euro 2022 campaign with Northern Ireland where she played all three group games against Norway, Austria and England.
Winger Wade signs from Northern Ireland side Glentoran.
Reading manager Kelly Chambers said: “We’ve been watching Lauren for a little bit and obviously I think the Euros she really stood out for Northern Ireland and for what this club is about and what we are as a team.
“I’m excited to bring her in and again to bolster the squad and make sure I’ve got a good depth for my squad this season to have in a challenging environment.”
Striker Wellings has also joined Chambers’ side to bolster their options in attack.
Wellings has played previously in the WSL for Bristol City where she scored three times in 33 games.
She then joined Celtic in 20201 where she netted 40 times in 33 games to help them to a third place finish and qualify for the Women’s Champions League qualifying rounds.
Chambers continued: “I think Charlie’s shown in the last season that she’s a goal scorer, she scored 40 goals last season for Celtic”
“I want to have a challenging environment, I want more depth, but also to have the quality to make sure that we’re competing in this league and Charlie definitely adds that but alongside that, she has experience in this league she’s been here she’s done it.”
“Now in terms of across that front line, hopefully she can come in and do what she’s been doing and again for us we want to work with her want to develop her and try and push her as much as possible.”
“The good thing is I’ve kept the majority of the squad, and I think that was one of our biggest targets during the summer, so it gave us something to build on.
“We obviously had our highs and lows last season, but I want to see an improvement in our consistency, and I think a big part of that was due to fitness and injuries which took over the squad.
“I feel with the introduction of these players we’ve confirmed today, plus Brooke [Hendrix] and Becky [Jane], we already have greater quality in depth, so I can protect the players better and avoid taking any risks.
“The luxury of having depth, is also providing competition for places. I need people to feel they must fight for the shirt, whether that be looking to start, or keep their place. This, I believe, will only complement and enhance our performances throughout the whole season, and I’m really happy with the work we’ve done so far.”
