Bennett wins International Call up

Royals defender Alan Bennett has been given his first ever call-up to the full Ireland squad.

Steve Staunton's men play two games in America next week, and centre back Bennett joins fellow Royals Kevin Doyle, Stephen Hunt and Shane Long on this tour.

Bennett, 25, signed for the Royals during the January transfer window for an undisclosed six figure fee from Cork City, the former home of both Doyle and Long.

He played 10 games for our reserves after moving across the water, scoring the opening goal in the play-off against Bolton to secure the national trophy last Friday. World subcribers can watch that goal now.

He has previously played for the Ireland under 21s, and also UEFA Cup experience from his time at Cork.

He trained with the squad this morning, and they fly out to the States tonight. Former Royal Joe Gamble, now at Cork, is also included.

Director Of Football Nick Hammond told readingfc.co.uk, "This is a great boost for Alan at the end of the season.

"He's settled in well, next year is the big one in terms of up stepping to the challenge, and this will give him a real boost going into the summer and looking to next season."

Meanwhile, Andre Bikey has been called up to the Cameroon squad for an African Cup Of Nations qualifier against Liberia on 3rd June