YANN’S KEEN TO HANG UP BOOTS IN PREM
YANN Kermorgant says he is desperate to propel Reading into the Premier League at the end of the season, as the striker prepares for a perfect farewell.
The Frenchman surprised those at Reading’s press conference on Thursday with the news that he plans to retire at the end of the 2017-18 campaign.
Despite being 35, Kermorgant has not lost his knack for finding the back of the net, bringing up double figures for the season with the opener in Reading’s 2-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday on March 17.
He signed a new deal in February to keep him at the club until next summer.
He has helped the Royals fly high this season and they look set for a spot in the play-offs, meaning Premier League football could return to Reading next term.
But, whatever happens, Kermorgant admits next season will be his last as he prepares to move into the investment world.
“I’m going to retire next season, even if I score 20 goals,” said Kermorgant, who was signed from Bournemouth in January 2016 for around £500,000 on an 18-month contract, having helped the Cherries gain promotion to the Premier League.
“That’s why I would love to get promotion and finish in the Premier League. It will be a dream.
“Whatever happens, next season will be my last. After football, I think I will go into investment.
“I don’t know how many chances I’ll get to play next season because of my age.
“At the start of the season, one of my aimswas to be good enough to get another year because I wasn’t ready to retire this season.
“I’ve been away from my family and my friends for a long time. It’s difficult for me and for my wife.”