NIALL Keown is the latest of a string of academy stars to leave Reading FC in search for regular first-team football, penning a two-year deal with Scottish side Partick Thistle.

Keown, son of former England and Arsenal defender Martin, enjoyed a successful loan spell at Firhill last season, making 16 appearances for Alan Archibald's side.

Fellow Jags' centre-back Danny Devine recently urged Archibald to re-sign Keown, who had briefly returned to Hogwood Park for pre-season training.

But the young centre-back rejoined Partick Thistle on a two-year contract for an undisclosed fee on Saturday

A post on the club's website reads: "Alan Archibald has spent the summer looking to strengthen his squad for the season ahead with the emphasis being on bringing in the right player for the squad.

"This morning we are delighted to announce that he has managed to add a defender to his squad with the signing of Niall Keown from Reading for an undisclosed fee.

"The 22-year-old defender, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Firhill, signs a two year deal with the club and will join up with his teammates at Thistle’s English training camp later this week.

"Niall enjoyed a successful loan spell at Firhill last campaign and all at the club are excited to see the defender back wearing red and yellow once again."

Keown joins Jack Stacey, Tariqe Fosu and Zak Jules who all opted to leave Madejski Stadium in search for regular playing time.

Former academy stars Craig Tanner and Aaron Kuhl also left after their contracts were not renewed.