Reading chief Nick Hammond is delighted with their deal for Bray Wanderers prospect Pierce Sweeney.

The 17 year-old defender joined the Royals yesterday.

Hammond said, "At the age of 17, Pierce is a young player with great potential and one that we've identified and watched over a long period of time.

"He is entering an excellent environment, and I know he will work extremely hard to try and realise his ambitions.

"The recruitment of young talent is massively important for us going forward, and after doing well in men's football in the League of Ireland he will now come into our development group."