Paul McShane signed a three-year deal with Reading this morning, following his release from Hull City in May, and immediately revealed that he was impressed by manager Steve Clarke.
Speaking to the Royals' official website, McShane expressed his relief that the transfer had finally gone through, after it had been "delayed for a few weeks". Ultimately, the 29-year-old felt glad to get the deal "over the line".
McShane went on to describe his new side as "such a good club", saying that people he knows who have played for Reading previously have given him "great reports". Furthermore, the Republic of Ireland international expressed his pleasure that manager Clarke had "come over to Dublin", making the effort to meet up with him while he was on duty with the national team, describing it as a "good gesture which meant a lot".
First team football
The 29-year-old was not only impressed with manager Steve Clarke but admitted he joined Reading because he wanted to be playing first team football.
Once again pointing to Clarke's desire to go above and beyond what was necessary to capture McShane's signature, the defender described his actions as a "massive difference" in swinging the deal. McShane went on to say that he wants "to be wanted", "play first team football", and ultimately be a big part of the club in coming season.
The Republic of Ireland international also revealed his plans for the upcoming season and admitted he wants to be part of a winning side once again, much like the one he was involved with at Hull City when he was promoted with them. Indeed, being "part of a promotion team again" is very much one of his aims. McShane also says he sees a similar attitude in his new manager, describing him as "very ambitious".
Clarke begins to build
The defender becomes Reading’s third signing in four days as Clarke looks to build a squad capable of winning promotion to the Premier League.
Reading boss Steve Clarke was keen to bolster his defence following the departure of Alex Pearce to Derby County and said he has been "monitoring the situation" in relation to McShane's contract, as he knew it was about to expire.
Clarke also went on to say that when he met the player "for a chat" in the summer, he knew the defender would be "a good signing", before finally expressing his delight that "[he] managed to get the deal completed".