Reading FC Under-23s continue their decent run of form with a 3-1 win over table-toppers Fulham.
Among the squad at the SCL Stadium on Monday include two new faces: Ethan Burnett and Tristan Abldeen-Goodridge.
This is alongside triallist Michael Craig, who we know has been with the squad for a few weeks.
So, who are these newbies?
Two trialists for the #ReadingFC U23s tonight in Aston Villa forward Tristan Abldeen-Goodridge and Southampton midfielder Ethan Burnett. pic.twitter.com/0iYNYuWKhK
— RFC Latest (@RFCLatest) April 25, 2022
Ethan Burnett
A central midfielder from Southampton, Burnett signed his first professional deal for the Saints in February 2022.
Highly regarded on the South Coast, Burnett played 17 times for the club’s youth sides last season and has amassed 10 appearances this season.
The 20-year-old has signed a deal which will see him join up with the Southampton B team.
Speaking to the club website, Academy Director Matt Hale said: “I’m particularly delighted for Ethan Burnett who has come through some real adversity with a serious injury during his scholarship years and delighted to see him sign today.
It will be great to see them in pre-season training and progressing further as our new first year professionals at the Club."
With this knowledge, it is difficult to understand exactly what Burnett’s role with Reading Under-23s could be looking further long-term.
Perhaps a potential loan move for next season?
It seems evident that it is a role which Noel Hunt wants to build on, with both him and former Tottenham midfielder Craig playing in that position.
READ MORE: Reading FC play former Tottenham Hotspur teenager in semi-final
Tristan Abldeen-Goodridge
An attacking player who has played across any of the forward positions, Abldeen-Goodridge came off of the bench for the final 15 minutes against the Cottagers.
Contributing four goals and three assists in 17 appearances this season for the youth sides, the 19-year-old is no stranger to netting at the SCL Stadium, having scored in a 2-2 draw against Reading in August and in the return tie in January.
Having spent time on trial with Newcastle United earlier this month, it is clear Steven Gerrard is willing to let the youngster go.
Aston Villa 23’s ahead against Birmingham City in the second city derby , Tristan Abldeen-Goodridge with the goal ,I could see him in the first team squad at the end of the season he’s a Steven Gerrard type player. He’s very aggressive and links play very effectively ,very smart.
— Josh Bunting (@Buntingfootball) December 6, 2021
Picking up fans along the way, journalist Josh Bunting described him as “very aggressive and links play very effectively, very smart” in a performance against Birmingham City.
With the plethora of Academy prospects out of contract at the end of the season, Abldeen-Goodridge could be a smart pick up to bolster the front line.
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