Ali Al-Habsi: Reading sign ex-Wigan Athletic goalkeeper

Al-Habsi trained with and played for Reading on their pre-season tour of Thailand

Goalkeeper Ali Al-Habsi has joined Reading on a two-year deal after he was released by Wigan.

The 33-year-old had been training with the Royals with a view to securing a contract and played during their pre-season tour of Thailand last week.

Oman international Al-Habsi was loaned to Brighton last season and also made 11 Championship appearances for Wigan.

Meanwhile, 20-year-old defender Niall Keown has signed a new three-year contract with the club.

Keown, the son of former Arsenal and England defender Martin, has made two appearances for the Championship club.

On the signing of Al-Habsi, Royals boss Steve Clarke said: "Ali is exactly the type of experienced goalkeeper we need.

"He has good knowledge of the English game both in the Championship and the Premier League.

"He is a good shot stopper and has already impressed everyone with his abilities in the shooting sessions during training.

"Alongside Jonathan Bond and Stuart Moore, Ali brings the goalkeeping department to a very good level."

Al-Habsi spent five years at Wigan and has won more than 100 international caps.

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