Youth striker signs professional deal

Academy striker Dominic Samuel has signed his first professional deal with Reading, boosted by his fantastic display in the FA Youth Cup on Tuesday night where he scored two goals to win the Royals the game.

The 17-year old is becoming renowned as one of the best young strikers around, with Samuel even breaking into the England U19 team. Senior striker Noel Hunt described Samuel as a 'natural finisher'.

His manager Eamonn Dolan told the official RFC site: 'First of all it's pleasing for him, because statistically you are much more likely to be successfully in a modern Academy if you earn a professional contract, rather than being guaranteed it the day you sign a scholarship.'

'Dominic came in, worked hard and earned this contract. So the fear is now that he might buy a car and do this and that, take his foot off the pedal. But the Youth Cup this week was evidence, and football is about doing.'

On the topic of the FA Youth Cup, the Royals have drawn West Bromwich Albion at home in the fourth round draw. The game will be played at the Madejski Stadium with fans able to attend.

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.