Reading FC take a look at Tadley Calleva goalkeeper after “outstanding performances”

Tadley Calleva goalkeeper Donnacha Burke has caught the eye of Reading FC and been invited to train with the EFL League One side.

An ever-present for the Romans this season, Burke has amassed 40 appearances according to FootballWebPages keeping 13 clean sheets, including Saturday in the 2-0 win at Alton.

Burke became the club’s number one in the summer after four first-team appearances and a spell on loan at Whitchurch United.

With Burke between the sticks, Tadley have the second best defensive record in the Combined Counties League Premier Division South after runaway leaders and champions Cobham, while the Romans still battle for a play-off place they are in pole position in second, with games in hand over the sides around them.

A social media post from Procision Football Academy Newbury said: “What a journey this young man has been on. Hard work, dedication, application and performances to back it all up.

“Currently playing Step 5 Tadley Calleva who are pushing for promotion off the back of a strong defensive unit.

“Donny has been invited to train with League 1 Reading FC & we wish him all the best. He fully deserves the opportunity.”

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A post from the Romans Instagram account said: “We are absolutely delighted that our number one has been invited to train with Reading FC following what has been years of dedication, hard work and outstanding performances.

A superb opportunity for Donnacha Burke as we continue to push for the playoffs and beyond.

Having watched Tadley several times this season and seen Burke in action last season for the club, it’s no surprise the team is flying high with a young goalkeeper that inspires trust from his teammates. If Tadley do make the play-offs and earn promotion, the youngster has more than played his part in achieving it.