Defender Alan Bennett concedes it will be difficult to follow in the footsteps of former Cork City team-mates Kevin Doyle and Shane Long at new club Reading but is relishing the challenge nonetheless.

Bennett finalised his move from Damien Richardson's side this afternoon - in a deal thought to be worth €350,000 - when putting pen to paper on a two-and-a-half-year contract at the Madejski Stadium.

"Negotiations took a while," he said.  "The club (Cork) wanted a good price, which I don't blame them for, and I think they got it in the end.

"It's been a long three weeks with phone calls back and forth," he added.  "I had a couple of sleepless nights but it's all paid off now, which is great."

Both Doyle and Long have made an immediate impact at Reading following their switch from Cork City, and while Bennett appreciates the challenge ahead will be difficult he is certainly relishing it.

"Doyler and Shane have come over and done so well.  I will be trying to follow in their footsteps, which will be hard because they've set the expectation levels high.  I'll hope to match them though."

Bennett's registration was not finalised in time to face Wigan tonight but the 25-year-old will be in squad contention for the weekend Premiership tie away to Manchester City.

Cork City wished Bennett well with his new club and thanked him for his "wonderful service and dedication to his home town club".

Reading had returned with an improved offer for Bennett after having an initial bid of around €150,000 turned down by Cork.