Van den Berg returns to Holland

MANDY VAN DEN BERG has left Reading Women after the club agreed to a mutual termination of her contract.

The Dutch centre-back played a big role for the Royals across the Spring Series after joining the club from Liverpool in November 2016.

She then went on to captain Holland to Euro 2017 glory in front of a home crowd, but has found herself out of the Reading side for much of this season with Jo Potter and

Kirsty Pearce the preferred central defensive duo.

And van den Berg, who made her final appearance for the club during Saturday’s Conti Cup quarter-final win over Everton, has now been released early from her contract to return to the Netherlands.

A statement from the club read: “It is with regret that we announce that Mandy van den Berg has made the decision to return to her native Holland.

“To allow this to happen without delay, it has been mutually and amicably agreed to terminate her contract with immediate effect.

“We would like to thank Mandy for her contribution to the club since signing for the Royals and everyone at Reading Women wishes her the very best of luck for the future.”

Van den Berg added: “Last weekend I played my last game for Reading. For now it’s time to go back home.

“Proud of the team and club and grateful for a warm time.

“I wish everyone happiness and the best of luck for the future!”

The departure of van den Berg leaves Reading a little short of defensive cover with Molly Bartrip, who has played much of this season in midfield, and youngster Georgia Clifford the only natural options beyond Pearce and Potter.