Keown signs for the Royals!

KEOWN SIGNS ON FOR READING

The former Arsenal and England defender has signed with Steve Coppell's side until the end of the season.

Speculation had been mounting in the summer after his release from Premiership champions Arsenal and Keown was set to sign in July for the Royals, only for the deal to be stopped at the 11th hour because of Leicester's interest from Micky Adams and the availability of a player-coach role at the club.

Keown however won't make his debut against his former club Leicester City in the FA Cup 4th Round tie at the Madejski Stadium because he featured in Leicester's games with Blackpool only 2 weeks ago.

But he is fit and raring to go in the Championship clash against Plymouth Argyle on the 5th February at the Madejski Stadium.

Keown said on his switch to Reading;

"Reading are challenging for promotion and seeing the players they have, the idea they have and the professionalism at the club it was the perfect place for me to go.

Martin believes he is up the challenge of the Championship;

"I became a lot more confident playing week in week out at Leicester.

"Having spent the last season at Arsenal with cameo performances, playing regularly at Leicester has helped. Hopefully I can give Reading Football Club and the fans what they need.

"We're coming into a critical part of the season now and it's all about belief - belief in what they can achieve. Hopefully I can install some of that in the players."

Reading Manager Steve Coppell was equally delighted to have got Keown's name on board at the club. He said;

"He has a wealth of experience, he's been playing regularly this season and will supplement our defence in terms of ability and knowledge. I hope he'll be a tremendous asset until the end of the season.

"We heard a rumour he might be available, it's well known I was in the hunt for him in the summer and he's agreed to join up.

"He's had 20 years at the top level and that's something we don't have a great deal of here."

Reading Chairman John Madejski added;

"This is an excellent signing for the Club and Martin's presence gives Steve Coppell another very strong defensive option as we approach the critical part of the season. He has achieved so much and his experience will be of enormous benefit to the squad. He is a natural winner, and I hope his attitude and desire will have a positive effect on all our players as we aim to bring Premiership football to the Thames Valley."

Martin takes the squad number 5.

We welcome Martin to Reading Football Club!!!