Taylor Made For Reading?

Last updated : 16 December 2003 By Rob Cooper
Blackburn Rovers midfielder Michael Taylor, who has failed to break into the first team at Ewood Park, could be set for a move to Reading.

The 21-year-old defender has been brought to the Madejski Stadium on a short-term trial with a view to a permanent deal. Taylor, who is a massive 6ft 3inch tall, will make his bow in Reading colours this afternoon in a reserve team game against Watford.

Brian McDerrmott will field Taylor at right-back, as opposed to his preferred centre-back position.

The Liverpool born man made twelve appearances for Carlisle at the end of last season during a loan spell at Brunton Park before a two-game loan tenure at Rochdale right at the end of the campaign.

Click here to see FootyMAD's Michael Taylor Stats.

Whilst an ex-Rochdale and Carlisle player is hardly going to excite the Reading faithful, further back up for the often injured Graeme Murty would hardly go amiss.

However, Director of Football Nicky Hammond revealed that the Royals are merely having a look at Taylor, who has been told by Rovers that he is free to leave Ewood Park.

Hammond told the official site: "Taylor's not been getting opportunities in the first team at Blackburn, and he's been given permission to have a look around at other clubs.

"The reserve game today is a good opportunity for him to show us what he can do."

Meanwhile, former St Crispins School PE Teacher Niall Clarke has signed a new five-year deal with the Royals. A whole host of clubs were believed to be intersted in signing the Sports Scientist who has worked wonders at the Madejski.

But today's news that he has signed a new deal will ensure that alan pardew won't be getting his grubby little mitts on him.