Reading striker Noel Hunt has signed a new contract with the English Championship outfit until 2013. The Republic of Ireland international has scored 19 goals in 76 appearances for the Royals since his 2008 arrival from Dundee United, but missed much of last season due to a knee injury.

"It's something we both wanted," Hunt told the club's official website.

"A lot of players in my situation let their contract run out and see what happens, but I didn't have any doubt in my mind and I love it here.

"I'm buying into what the manager is selling and everyone else is as well. It makes us a good team and it's the place to be for me. Hopefully we can get up to the play-off positions and kick on."

Royals boss Brian McDermott said: "We're delighted that Noel has agreed to stay for another couple of years. As everybody knows, he's a great guy and you can see the work he puts in on the pitch.

"On top of that he does a lot of work in the community and with local charities, he's a real ambassador for us and as I said we're delighted."