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Reading have re-signed free agent Shane Long on a one-year contract
The Irishman first arrived in Berkshire as an 18-year-old in June 2005
Striker will train with his new team-mates for the first time on Thursday

Published: 19:05 EDT, 13 July 2022 | Updated: 19:19 EDT, 13 July 2022

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Reading have re-signed free agent striker Shane Long. The Republic of Ireland striker left Reading in 2011.

The 35-year-old has signed a one-year deal with the Royals after leaving Premier League Southampton following the expiration of his contract.

The Irishman, who first arrived in Berkshire as an 18-year-old in June 2005, has since made 564 senior appearances for Reading, West Brom, Hull, Southampton and Bournemouth and won 88 international caps.

Shane Long (above) has signed a one-year deal with Reading after leaving Southampton

Royals boss Paul Ince told the Sky Bet Championship club's official website: 'The arrival of Shane is something of a football fairytale for Reading fans. But make no mistake about it - he is coming into the dressing room purely on the merits of what he can offer this squad out on the pitch.

'Experience, energy, leadership, desire and a natural instinct you need to score goals... Shane will be an important addition to the group we are patiently trying to build and grow.'

Long, who will train with his new team-mates for the first time on Thursday, scored his first goal for Reading after coming off the bench against Derby in December 2005, his second appearance, and his last in a Championship play-off semi-final victory over Cardiff in May 2011.