Reading FC take Ireland youngster on loan after Italy spell

Reading have taken Republic of Ireland youngster John Ryan on trial.

The 19-year-old appeared for the side in a 2-0 defeat to QPR behind-closed-doors.

A left-back by trade, the teenager had played in his native League of Ireland until last year with Shamrock Rovers and UCD before a surprise move to Serie A outfit Sassuolo.

Never making a first-team appearance, the Under-19 international made 23 youth appearances for the Neroverdi.

Looking predominantly at free agents and loan deals, the Royals started three trialists against Gareth Ainsworth’s R’s- with another handful around the camp.

Only Nesta Guinness-Walker stands directly in his path as the senior left-back, with Baba Rahman’s loan spell ending over the summer.

It remains to be seen whether he is trialing with a view to impact the first team or Noel Hunt’s Under-23 outfit.

Man United legend passes on message to Reading FC midfielder

Former England and Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand sent new Reading midfielder Charlie Savage a positive message following his move to Berkshire.

Ferdinand was one of the greatest defenders this country has produced, playing over 450 times for the Red Devils and almost 80 caps for the Three Lions.

A regular opponent of Charlie’s father Robbie Savage while both were fierce competitiors in the Premier League, the 20-year-old has become a Royal after 15 years in the youth set up at Old Trafford.

Confirming his move on Saturday, Ferdinand wished the youngster all the best for his move to the SCL Stadium.

“Top interview Sav,” the former West Ham and Leeds United star said. “good luck on your next chapter!”

Father Robbie, who played his last ever professional match at the-then Madejski Stadium as Derby County captain in 2011, responded with three words…”proud of you.”

Savage has two weeks to wait for his Royals competitive debut, potentially against Peterborough United on the opening day.