After announcing the capture of Bulgarian teenage striker Radoslav Vasilev, Reading Academy chief Eamonn Dolan hailed the club's growing reputation across the continent.

He told the club's website: "It's an international game now, and it's reflection of our Club. I said at the weekend this is the best club in England to work. Otherwise why would I be here?!

"We've had the manager of the year for the last two years, it's a great club with great harmony. All of those are reasons why are reputation is spreading to places like Bulgaria. With people like the gaffer, Nick Hammond, Brian McDermott, Wally and Kevin, it all helps so much.

"Players speak to players and agents speak to agents about our Club. Steve Shorey is beavering away and doing his very best to recruit the very best."