Reading favourite Nelson Abbey has penned an emotional tribute to supporters after confirming his move to Greek giants Olympiacos.

The 20-year-old was born and raised in the town, joined the Academy at eight and went on to become a key part of Ruben Selles' side in this, his breakout, season.

He will now have the opportunity to play in Europe and the Greek Super League.

Taking to Instagram, the youngster said: "Well… I don’t even know where to start. Reading football club has been a massive part of my life, if not my whole life. We’ve been through ups and downs, we’ve laughed we’ve cried. We’ve hurt and we have celebrated. But we’ve done this all together. I just want to thank all the supporters who have stuck with us and me through everything. From Rubén to Mark Bowen, to my teammates I thank you guys for everything. To all the coaching staff that have helped shape me into the person I am today. To the kit men, to every physio that had to be patient with me during my injuries. The list goes on.

"I joined Reading as a boy from Reading and I leave Reading as a young man who is still learning. This definitely was not the goodbye I imagined, but I know despite what’s going on around our club Reading FC will be still be a football club because of our supporters. One thing I ask is for you guys to continue with being the amazing supporters you guys have been. It means the world to us. We can’t deny the situation around the club is taking a toll on all of us, especially the ones who truly care.

"It’s now time for a new challenge, which I am looking forward to taking on. I will always be a Royal. Until we meet again."