George Evans has completed a transfer from Manchester City to Reading, and he has expressed his delight at the prospect of regular first team action.
The 21-year-old developed through the youth system at the Etihad Stadium, and made his first team debut earlier this season when he appeared as a late substitute in the 4-1 win over Sunderland in the League Cup. This was a particularly notable debut, as he became the second player in their history to represent the club at all levels from under-8’s to the senior team.
Evans, who had previously spent time on loan at Scunthorpe United and Crewe Alexandra, was sent to Walsall for another temporary stint in October, making 12 appearances and scoring three times. He has now made the move to Championship side Reading on a permanent basis, and the midfielder has revealed his excitement at the chance to nail down regular football.
“I am absolutely delighted,” he told the official club website. “I am really excited about the opportunity. I had time on loan at Walsall which was a fantastic experienced for me and I then had a few opportunities for a permanent move and, as soon as I heard Reading were interested, it was an option I really wanted to take. It is a massive club. Great manager, great stadium.”
Whilst the Royals cannot yet be ruled out of playoff contention, they have slipped nine points off the pace having recorded just two wins from their last 10 matches. Evans could be thrown into the side at the earliest opportunity, when Sheffield Wednesday – who currently occupy the final playoff position – visit the Madejski Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Speaking about the signing of Evans, Reading boss Brian McDermott said: “I am delighted we have secured the signing of George. I saw him play for Walsall while I was scouting for Arsenal and we’ve followed him ever since. He is a great guy and a terrific young midfielder with great pedigree, and I’m sure he will become an even better player working at Reading.”
