Stoke City midfielder Josh Laurent sent an emotional message to Royals supporters after departing to club.

Joining in 2020, he played almost 100 times in two full seasons- winning Player of the Season in his debut campaign.

Reading Chronicle:

Offered a new contract to stay at the club, the 27-year-old decided against remaining in Berkshire and signed a three-year deal with the Potters.

After the news was made official, the former Shrewsbury Town star said: "On July 28 I signed a deal at this fantastic football club. Since that time the supporters, staff and players have shown me love and respect, and I would like to think I have done the same.

"It was an extremely difficult decision to leave Reading, in a short period of time I havemade some very good friends and received support from an amazing fanbase. However, I felt at my age and at this point in my career, the time was right for me to move.

"I would like to thank all the players and staff at Reading Football Club- Mark for bringing me to the club and giving me the opportunity, Pauno, Marko Nuno and Quinny for their help, trust and guidance and Paul and Alex who have just been tremendous and a joy to play for and the whole staff at the club. I hope they all feel that I have repaid them back in my two years at the club.

"To the Reading fans, it was an absolute privilege to play for such an amazing football club. Thank you again for all your support and very best wishes for the future. I hope to see you all again- UP THE DING."

Royals fans will find out when they will face Laurent tomorrow, as fixtures are released at 9am on Thursday, June 23.