Reading manager Paul Clement has spoken of his delight to have secured the services of Josh Sims from Southampton on a season-long loan deal.
Speaking to Reading’s official club website, the manager explained the thinking behind his side’s pursuit of the promising winger, who will spend the 2018/19 campaign playing Championship football.
He is a talented young player that can play on either side, he is a hard worker with a lot of ability and potential, and I’m delighted that he’s joining us at Reading.
Sims will be keen to impress during his first temporary spell away from St Mary’s, with Reading keen to push their way up the table this season.
Clement has revealed that he was first impressed by Sims when he played against Swansea City during his spell in charge of the club, highlighting the winger’s “athleticism and energy” as key reasons behind the move.
I’m really pleased that we have been able to bring Josh here on a season-long loan.
He first came to my attention playing in the Premier League when I was manager at Swansea, and as soon as he came off the bench for Southampton I immediately noticed his athleticism and energy.
Sims was excluded from Southampton’s matchday squads in their first two Premier League fixtures of the season against Burnley and Everton, indicating that he is, for now at least, surplus to Mark Hughes’ requirements.
Southampton now have two wingers at their disposal in Nathan Redmond and Mohamed Elyounoussi.
