ALL THE SWAY TO SOMERSET
Defender Reading urged to make United switch after rave reviews from old Ayr duo
Ayr new boy Paddy Reading was sold on a Somerset switch — after glowing reviews from his Scotland pals.
The left back, who inked a two-year deal this week, called on advice from outgoing Ayr stars Danny Harvie and Ross Doohan.
And when they urged him to jump at the move, he didn’t need a second invitation.
Gateshead boy Reading came through Middlesbrough’s youth system and qualifies for Scot Gemmill’s under 21s through his family.
He said: “I know Danny and Ross very well from the international squad.
“So when this came up I was able to speak to them and all the stuff I’ve heard has been really positive.
“I also follow the various leagues and keep up to date, so I know Ayr are a club who’ve been pushing in recent seasons.
“They’re obviously going in the right direction and that’s a big part of me coming here.”
Reading, 21, has been snapped up as a direct replacement for Harvie, who confirmed his move to MK Dons on Monday.
But Ayr’s new boy is determined to stamp his own mark on the team – although knows the comparisons will be inevitable.
He said: “Danny’s proven what you can do by coming here as a young player and getting a move like that.
“It shows you what this club is all about and the kind of platform you have.
“I want to come here, prove myself and kickstart my career.
“I’m probably similar in style to Danny in that I like getting forward and getting my crosses into the box.
“But I also welcome the challenge of defending and love grafting.
“It’s how I’ve been taught at Middlesbrough and I look forward to it here.
“I want to make a name for myself and show the fans what I’m all about.”
Boss Mark Kerr added: “I think Paddy is one the fans will really take to.
“He fits that mould of a young player who can come here and better himself.
“He’ll give us lots of energy down the left-hand side and should be a great addition to what we have.”
Ayr have also added former Hearts and Partick winger Dario Zanatta on a one-year deal.
The Canadian had invoked a release clause at Firhill after Thistle’s relegation to League One.
Kerr said: “Dario is one who can excite you and he’s always been a threat against us.
“I’ve liked him for a long time and hopefully he can come here and have a big season for us.”