Pards: Flying Scotsman Murray To Be A Hit

Last updated : 08 July 2003 By Rob Cooper
Alan Pardew
Pardew: Determined to capture his man
Alan Pardew was absolutely delighted to have completed the signing of Scott Murray.

Pards has been chasing the 29-year-old Scotland B international all summer and has finally landed his man.

Speaking at a press conference held at the Madejski Stadium this afternoon, boss Alan Pardew admitted he expects Scott Murray to be a massive hit at the Madejski Stadium.

"I've got no doubt that he will be a huge success at Reading," said the highly-rated boss.

Pardew believes that Murray's versatility should stand him in good stead as he embarks on a new life at the Madejski Stadium. The former Aston Villa man was used primarily as a winger at City, but has also previously played at right-back as well as up-front.

Pards added: "One of the main reasons I was adamant that Scott Murray had to come to this club was his versatility - there are a number of roles he can play, and play very well.

"Not many quality players become available, and we have paid a lot of money but I think it is justified."

The Flying Scotsman Murray is expected to operate on the wing for Reading as his energy when getting up and down the wing is said to at times resemble that of a powerful steam engine, such is his never say die attitude.

But had it not been for Pardew's forever-glowing desire to capture his man then Murray could well have still been at Bristol City come August. A couple of weeks back the deal looked to be dead when the Robins were insisting that Reading would have to pay £1 million for their star player.

Pardew's desperation to get his man ensured he was able to agree a deal for just £650,000, whilst beating off competition from rival First Division and Premiership clubs for the Scotsman's signature.

Indeed, the Royals chief seeked inspiration from Sir Bobby Robson, a footballing legend, when at times the deal appeared to be all but dead. Few would see the link between sunny Barcelona and sunny Bristol but Pardew certainly does.

"I remember Bobby Robson talking about when he was trying to sign Ronaldo at Barcelona and the valuation kept going up and up, and he just said 'I want my man'. That was the case here - I wanted Scott Murray, and now here he is."

Lets hope the comparisons will not end there. Ronaldo won the Spanish Giants accolade after accolade during a golden spell at the Nou Camp. Reading boss Pardew will surely be happy if Murray wins the Royals just one award during his spell at the club, providing it is promotion.