Long harbours Premier League ambitions

Republic of Ireland striker Shane Long hopes to be playing in the Barclays Premier League with Reading next season, although he concedes he may need to move to pastures new in order to fulfil his ambitions. The 24-year-old has blossomed at the Madejksi Stadium this season and was named the FAI Young International Player of the Year on Sunday. Long's performances have seen him tipped to succeed at the top level, which he hopes to be playing at sooner rather than later. "Obviously I want to get there as soon as I can and hopefully it's with Reading this year and, if not, hopefully someone else wants me there," he told the Irish Independent. "The club hasn't said anything to me. I don't know if they had anyone in for me or offers. "I know it's a cliche to say it but I was just concentrating on my game and thinking all that side of things would take care of itself."

Source: PA