Goodwin to trial with Reading

Newcastle Jets left-back Craig Goodwin will leave for a two-week trial with English Premier League club Reading on Monday.

Newcastle Jets left-back Craig Goodwin will leave for a two-week trial with English Premier League club Reading on Monday.

Goodwin, 21, enjoyed a strong A-League season with the Jets, making 25 appearances both in defence and on the left-wing.

The former Melbourne Heart full-back has caught the eye of the relegation-threatened Reading and will get a chance to impress when he heads to England on Monday, before returning on April 20.

“I can’t express enough how great an opportunity it is,” Goodwin said in a statement released by the Jets on Sunday.

“You don’t get these chances every day, so for myself to have this chance is something I’m very thankful for.

“I don’t have any expectations heading over there really, I’m just open to a great experience, particularly for myself as a younger player, it will be a great to learn and experience the game over there.”

Nigel Adkins’ men appear set for the drop from the top flight after their 2-0 loss to Southampton on Saturday left them eight points from safety.

Goodwin will join fellow Australians Adam Federici and Ryan Edwards at Reading and the Olyroo is excited to be heading over in a good condition.

“It’s been a good first season for myself personally,” Goodwin said.

“I’m in good stead for when I go over there because I’m at the fittest I have been at the moment.”