Reading FC players welcome Zingarevich takeover

Anthony Smith • Published 27 Jan 2012 11:15 0 Comments

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READING'S playing squad have welcomed the potential takeover by Thames Sports Investment.

TSI founder Anton Zingarevich is poised to obtain a 51% stake in the club for around £25 million.

The deal is likely to be rubber stamped in March, but Zingarevich has already given manager Brian McDermott cash to spend in the transfer market.

Yesterday Royals made a double signing with the capture of strike duo Jason Roberts from Blackburn and Tomasz Cywka from Derby County.

McDermott also hopes to land defender Karleigh Osborne from Brentford before the January 31 deadline.

The addition of reinforcements at this crucial time in the season is certainly good news for Reading's playing squad.

Midfielder Jay Tabb stated: "The chairman told us not to worry because he and the manager are still here.

"We've just got to concentrate on the rest of the season and the next run of games.

"The manager hasn't had too much money to spend for the last two seasons.

"So if this means he can strengthen the squad then great."

The TSI takeover last Friday had an immediate impact as it persuaded Jimmy Kebe to finally sign a new contract.

And defender Kaspars Gorkss is now looking forward to meeting Zingarevich to find out the true extent of the Russian tycoon's ambitions.

"There were rumours going around about it happening," said vice-captain Gorkss.

"I don't know the new owners. He (Anton Zingarevich) hasn't been here or told us what his ambitions and plans are.

"Hopefully it is a change for the better. If his ambitions are to get to the Premier League then good."

And goalkeeper Adam Federici stated: "We heard a few whispers then were told someone is taking over.

"But the chairman, Sir John Madejski, is still the chairman and nothing is going to change.

"I don't think it's a Manchester City takeover where they go and buy every player around.

"However, we'd love it. It (investment in the squad) is something we've been lacking a long time.

"If we get a few more players in then fantastic. If not we already have a good enough squad."

The Aussie keeper added: "We've had a good start to the season and now would be a good time for investment. It looks like we've got some."

This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 27 Jan 12

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