Soccer:Karl Sheppard pointed to the success of fellow strikers Kevin Doyle and Shane Long as the key to him signing a two and a half year deal with Reading today.

The former Shamrock Rovers player turned down approaches from other Championship outfits to join the Royals, a club that has had a strong Irish connection in recent years.

“It was massive, seeing the likes of Kevin Doyle and Shane Long come over and do well, and Hunty as well, it's a good thing,” said the 20-year-old.

“The history of bringing good Irish players through is something that intrigued me into coming here. There was interest from a few other Championship clubs as well but once I heard that Reading were in, there was only one club for me.

“I'm buzzing for it, I can’t wait. It’s been a month since my last game so getting fitness is obviously something that I need to do and then hopefully I can break into the team.”

Sheppard’s versatility in the forward positions was seen as a big attraction by English clubs and the Republic of Ireland under-21 international is willing to fit in wherever he is required.

“I like to get in behind teams, I'm alright at holding the ball up as well

I obviously like to get a goal or two.

“I prefer playing up top, but I can play on the right as well, I’m still learning but up top is my preferred position.”

Royals boss Brian McDermott was impressed with Sheppard’s desire to join the club and believes he will fit in well.

“The most important thing was that he was really keen to come to Reading. With the Irish players having come over and done well, that’s been very important. We’ve got such a big following in Ireland now, I’m sure this will help as well.”

McDermott was aware of Sheppard’s previous stint as a teenager with Everton, but believes that second time around he can make a bigger impression having gained experience during his time with Shamrock Rovers.

“There was lots of interest in him as a youngster; he went to Everton for decent money. Sometimes at 16 coming over from Ireland it can be difficult to settle. I believe they're better off playing in Ireland for a while, like Kevin and Shane did. There’s others, Keith Fahey was at Villa early and is back now at Birmingham,” said McDermott, who also pointed to the various options the player gives as a big bonus.

“Karl is young, hungry and wants to do well. That’s the criteria we’ve had here for such a long time, it’s why we've been successful.

“He can hold it up, he can score, he can play up front on his own or in a two, he played wide right in a three as well so he’s versatile.”