Shane Long has bid farewell to Reading and is looking forward to opening a new chapter in his career.
Baggies new boy looking forward to Premier League life
Shane Long has bid farewell to Reading and is looking forward to opening a new chapter in his career.
The Republic of Ireland international has swapped life at the Madejski Stadium for that at Premier League outfit West Brom.
He arrives at the Hawthorns with a reputation as a hard-working frontman who is capable of plundering 20-plus goals a season.
Long appreciates that he has a lot to live up to, with West Brom having parted with a sizeable fee in order to secure his signature.
He is, however, excited by the challenge awaiting him with the Baggies and is confident he has made the right decision for his career.
Speaking to Reading's
official website after finally severing all ties with the club on Thursday, Long said: "It was strange driving into the training ground, it's a little bit sad, last day here but nice to get in to say goodbye to the lads and do it properly.
"That's what makes it a bit harder, everyone's so nice here, they've looked after me for the last six years, all the staff and players. It'll be tough leaving but I'm excited about pastures new at West Brom.
Future
"It's been mad, there's been talks for a long time then it happened quickly, and I'm excited for a new start. It's been amazing, I had six good years, I think the fans have warmed to me, maybe one day in the future I can come back but for now I'm looking forward to the next four years at West Brom.
"When I knew West Brom were interested I knew it was easy to make the move to a Premier League team, the manager Roy Hodgson has been at big clubs and hopefully he can improve my game.
"I'm only 24, there's been ups and downs at Reading, there's so many people I could name that looked after me and looked after my best interests. They've looked out for me but I think it was time for a change and now I think I can improve and hopefully kick on.
"Brian (McDermott) has always looked after me. It's tough to leave him, I owe him a lot as a player and he's a good friend as well. I can't thank him enough for not standing in my way and letting me get that move to the Premiership, always having my best interests at heart and hopefully I can repay him someday.
"For the last 18 months the fans have been very good to me, singing my name, it makes a big difference and I hope they can keep doing it for the lads.
"I'll try to get back myself to support the lads and I think it's all set up for the Premier League. We went close last year, hopefully one step more this time around."
