Republic of Ireland U-19 striker Shane Long has signed a new three-year contract with Reading FC.

Long joined the newly-promoted Premiership side last summer from Cork City for a nominal sum and made a real impact during his first season with the club, scoring four times in fifteen appearances.

That form prompted the Royals to offer the 19-year-old a new deal and Long admitted he was more than happy to extend his contract ahead of the club's first season in the Premiership.

"The last year has been brilliant for me," said Long.

"I feel like I've really progressed since joining Reading and I'm delighted to sign this new deal.

"Like the rest of the boys I can't wait for the new season to start. It's going to be a big learning curve for me and I'm really looking forward to the challenge.

Long's new contract will run until the summer of 2009.