Experienced winger Ritchie joins Reading

Matt Ritchie returned to Portsmouth last summer, 13 years after he left them for Swindon Town

Reading have signed experienced winger Matt Ritchie on a two-year deal following the 35-year-old's departure from boyhood club Portsmouth.

Ritchie, who played in the Premier League player for Bournemouth and Newcastle United, featured in 39 Championship matches for Pompey last season, scoring five goals and adding one assist in all competitions.

"Matt is a fantastic signing for us – he's a proven player at every level, a leader on and off the pitch, and someone who will set standards for everyone," said Reading manager Noel Hunt on the official club website.

"His quality and experience of winning promotions will be invaluable. We're delighted to get him on board."

In what has been a busy summer at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, Ritchie's arrival signifies the 12th summer signing by the Royals and the second from Portsmouth following winger Paddy Lane.

Reading sit second from bottom in League One with two points from their opening five games and Ritchie could make his debut when they host Port Vale this Saturday.

Marriott and Ritchie 'bring experience' to Reading

Reading's most recent two signings are a change in tack.

Both Jack Marriott, 30, and Matt Ritchie, 35, bring experience, wisdom, footballing intelligence and know-how to a squad so far reliant on high energy and youthful exuberance.

They will offer leadership during games, and as importantly set the tone at the training ground.

Ritchie's arrival adds to manager Noel Hunt's lengthy list of wing options and despite Marriott's arrival, there is still a shortage of striker options.

Hunt told me he is still keen to bring in one or two more players before the window closes on Monday, a reliable striker at the peak of his powers would be ideal.