READING FC Women have made their first signing of 2018 with the capture of Wales international Natasha Harding.

Harding was a free agent as her contract with Liverpool Ladies expired at the end of December.

And Royals boss Kelly Chambers wasted little time in snapping up the 28-year-old Wales forward on a long-term deal.

Harding, who scored four goals in five league games for Liverpool Ladies this season, beamed: “It’s a new challenge and it’s an exciting club to be a part of.

"One of the clubs’ ambitions is to get into the top three, and that’s more than achievable. So being a football player and wanting to win, to turn down this opportunity would have been stupid".

Reading FC Women return from a winter break this Sunday when they take on Women’s Super League One leaders Manchester City at Wycombe’s Adams Park (4pm).

Royals’ sit fifth in the table with eight points from five matches. But they face a stern test this weekend against a City side boasting a 100% record.

Royals also have one eye on their Continental Cup semi final clash against Arsenal Ladies at Adams Park on Sunday, January 14.

And Harding is eager to get her hands on some trophies following her move to Berkshire.

"I don’t think it would be too farfetched if I said I want to win silverware here," she declared.

"Kelly [Chambers] knows me from working with Wales and she knows I’ve got a winning mentality. Before I retire I’d like to have something else to my name than a FA Cup runners-up medal.

I’ve come here to help the club achieve what they want to achieve”.

Harding is eager to get working under Chambers and spoke highly of the Royals coach.

“She’s very detailed, she’s a great technician," she said. "She’s also a friend and great to have around.

"She’s so knowledgeable and I think that’s what many of the girls have realised over the past few years and she’s got Reading to where they are now.

"I know the girls have played a big part, but Kelly is the driving force, she’s the brains. I don’t want to make her head too big, but she’s great and one of the reasons I came here”.

Chambers stated: "Tash is a player with a huge amount of WSL1 experience and is someone who can strengthen our attacking threat."

Reading return to action this Sunday at home to league-leaders Manchester City Women. Tickets are available online from just £3.