After failing to win a move to the Premier League during the January transfer window, Republic of Ireland international Stephen Hunt now believes his long-term future lies at Reading. Hunt has put pen to paper on a new three-and-a-half-year deal that will keep him with the Royals until 2012.

Wigan were just one of the clubs prepared to meet the €5.3 million buy-out clause in Hunt’s contract last month but with Reading unwilling to accept the offer unless the entire fee was paid up front the deal broke down.

At the time, Hunt made no secret of his desire to return to the top flight but is now prepared to stay and fight for promotion with Reading.

“I’ve always said that I’m very happy here and signing this contract shows my commitment,” Hunt said today.

“I’m determined to have a big impact in the next three months and help get this club promoted.

“The next seven or eight games are very important; we need to get as many points on the board as possible by the end of March to put us in a strong position for the run-in.”

Hunt, who has won 14 caps for Ireland, joined Reading in 2005 after being released by Brentford and quickly established himself as a key player under manager Steve Coppell.

Along with teammate fellow Ireland international Kevin Doyle, he was always likely to be the subject of transfer speculation given his compelling form in the championship. Reading currently lie second in the table, five points behind leaders Wolves.