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Reading FC Extended Loan Report: Dom Samuel

As a sizeable chunk of Reading fans call for Dom Samuel to return from a successful loan spell at Gillingham, what have Gills fans made of his impact in League One?

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We sought out the views of Gillingham fan Alan Liptrott from Gills Connect, who gave us his thoughts on Dominic Samuel's loan spell from Reading.

What have you made overall of Dom's spell at the club?

The majority of Gills fans believe he has made a major impact whilst on loan at Priestfield and Reading's loss has been a massive gain for us. He's been an almost ever present in the Gills starting line-up during his 20 appearances since arriving last November.

What type of role has he been played in?

He plays as an out and out striker with a keen eye for goal as well as using his ball skills during the link-up moves. Unfortunately though like the rest of the Gills squad he has missed the services of our injured star midfielder Bradley Dack during the last month but has soldiered on regardless.

What would you say are his biggest strengths?

His biggest assets are his trickery with the ball in and around the penalty and when he pulls the trigger the shots are normally on target and will take a decent defensive block or save from the keeper to stop the ball hitting the back of the net.

And weaknesses?

His defensive qualities have at times been questioned by some of the Gills fans as well as being a little injury prone during his time with the Royals. Sometimes he seems to lack a bit of confidence whilst having a lean spell in front of goal.

Have the fans taken to him?

Our fans have really taken to him and were over the moon when he extended his loan spell with us for the rest of the season. Many believe he could be difference between the Gills getting automatic promotion to the Championship or alternatively going up via the play-offs.

There were always reports and whispers that he attitude wasn't always the best at Reading, have you seen or heard anything to suggest that's still the case?

During his loan spell with Gills he's been a model of consistency and our fans have always been eager to show their appreciation towards him from the stands both home and away. I also haven't seen any adverse comments about him on the fans forums or social media.

If given the chance would you sign him permanently?

Without a shadow of doubt Gills fans would welcome him with open arms as a permanent signing although most realise the chances of it actually happening could be remote. Much might depend on what division Gills are playing in next season and whether Dominic is involved with the Royals first team squad next season.