Newcastle Jets full back Craig Goodwin is set to undergo a trial at Premier League side Reading.
The 21-year-old Australian defender has made 25 appearances in the A-League this season alongside former England international Emile Heskey.
It may be too late for new manager Nigel Adkins to save Reading from Premier League relegation and his interest in Goodwin hints that the Royals are already beginning to re-build for life in the Championship next season.
The youngster, who can operate at both left back and further forward at left wing, was nominated for Australia’s young player of the year in 2012. In his homeland he has built a reputation on his crossing ability and set piece specialism which has been acknowledged by the Australian national setup. In March 2012 Goodwin made an appearance in the Socceroos Olympic qualification campaign and he has constantly been touted for a call up for the Aussie’s World Cup qualifiers.
Offering his opinion on his opportunity at Reading Goodwin said:
“I can’t express enough how great an opportunity it is. You don’t get these chances every day, so for myself to have this chance is something I’m very thankful for. I don’t have any expectations. It will be great to learn and experience the game over there.“
A 3-0 defeat to local rivals Western Sydney brought Goodwin and Newcastle Jets’ season to an early end last week as the result cost them a place in the A-League playoffs.