Toon midfielder secures “special” move

Guthrie swaps Newcastle for Championship winners Reading

By Zain Alvi | 30th June 2012

Danny Guthrie has confirmed that he will complete his transfer from Newcastle United to Reading tomorrow and has described the switch as a “special” one.

Guthrie, 25, only managed 19 appearances across all competitions for the Magpies last season and struggled to get playing time given the form of Cheick Tiote.

However, the recently promoted Royals made their interest very clear in the services of the former Manchester United and Liverpool youth player, thus tempting him away rather smoothly.

“We’re delighted Danny has signed for us. He brings good experience at a good age, he has real ability to pass the ball, he’s got energy and he is what Reading is all about, a hungry player,” Reading manager Brian McDermott told Sky Sports.

He added: “We’re looking to add players who we think will be good for us over a number of years, not just next season, adding to the players who have already done fantastically well for us.”

When asked to comment on the move himself, an excited Guthrie stated: “As soon as I met the manager and (director of football) Nick Hammond, my mind was made up, it was a no-brainer. Reading football club is a fantastic family club, well run and I’m so excited to be part of something special for this club.”

At the conclusion of his stint with Newcastle, Guthrie made a total of 104 appearances for the Tyneside club, with a return of nine goals.