Kevin Doyle has today left Reading to join Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Chief Scout Brian McDermott has paid tribute to our former striker's ability and work ethic.

The move represents a Club record sale for the Royals, and the deal is excellent business after we paid a nominal fee to sign him four years ago.

Brian was instrumental in bringing Kevin over from Cork City, and told readingfc.co.uk, "It's there for everyone to see how good he was, not just as a player but as a man as well.

"When he came over there were mumblings because nobody knew him, and to do what he has done is incredible. He's played at the top level in the Premier League and now he is an established player for Ireland as well - he really is very important to their team.

"He's given hope to a lot of people in football who may think their time has gone. I know a lot of Irish youngsters look at him as a role model for what can be achieved."

The size of the fee involved means that Kevin's departure represents very significant business for the Club, and Brian said, "The importance of this move and the money involved has been well documented.

"It's not just that, last year he made a pact to stay, there was interest in him then but he stayed to try and get us into the Premiership. Nick and Steve Coppell kept a promise and that was important.

"I know he was Wolves' top target and our fans will give him a great reception when he eventually comes back. He has done right by the Club and the Club have done right by him."

Irishman Doyle, 25, played 146(+17) games for Reading in four years, scoring 55 goals along the way.

His time at Reading saw him earn his first caps for Ireland, and he soon became a first choice for his country, winning 26 caps in total and scoring six goals.