Charlie Adam Is Reading’s Third Summer Signing

Reading have announced another summer signing: Charlie Adam. The veteran midfielder has become the Royals’ third addition so far, in addition to Joao Virginia and Michael Morrison, and agreed a one-year deal.

At the age of 33, Adam is no spring chicken - but he does have plenty of experience on his side. In a 16-year career, the Scot has turned out for Rangers, Blackpool, Liverpool and most recently Stoke City. His contract with the Potters expired this summer, meaning we’ve picked up another free agent.

Much of that experience has been in the Premier League. Adam earned promotion to the top flight with Ian Holloway’s Blackpool in 2010 before getting a season under his belt there with the Tangerines. An unsuccessful stay with Liverpool followed, with Adam moving onto Stoke City.

That spell has seen him rack up more than 150 appearances in red and white, although he played less regularly for Stoke as his career there progressed. He played just a dozen times last season - in the Potters’ first second-tier campaign since 2008.

As a signing for us, it’s reminiscent of the John O’Shea capture this time last year. Adam’s know-how will certainly be a big asset at a time when the squad is largely young and inexperienced - particularly the midfield. Limiting his stay (at the moment) to a one-year deal makes sense, so hopefully he can teach the youngsters a fair bit about football during the next 12 months or so.

That’s exactly what CEO Nigel Howe highlighted when he praised the signing to the official club website:

“A player with both Championship and Premier League experience, not to mention pedigree at European and international level, Charlie Adam can play a very valuable role within what is a relatively young first team squad at Reading. I look forward to seeing him represent the Royals this season.”

Best of luck to Charlie in his stay at Reading!