It might seem a long commute, but there is a perfectly reasonable explanation behind Reading City’s signing of Lydney Town defender Tom Baldwin.
The Gloucestershire side’s long-serving defender has relocated to Berkshire (sensible) and Severn Sport’s Ryan Butler was quickly on the phone with Reading boss Simon Johnson about his availability.
Johnson said: “We owe our thanks to Ryan at Severn Sport for this one. Tom has been plying his trade in the Hellenic League with Lydney, but having moved to the area he had a number of clubs after his signature. We’re delighted he’s chosen to sign for us.”
Speaking of Severn Sport, Ryan told us a little bit about Baldwin’s ability: “Having seen Tom play for Lydney for a couple of seasons, he is a versatile defender who does a job for the team.
“Lydney used him as right and centre back and has been part of a physical defensive unit.
“Tom is still young and will get better with age, but he has played nearly 100 times at Step 5 and has played in a back five with players with decades of experience with the likes of Sam Elliott and Rich Thomas, so has a solid learning in the game.
“Tom has all of the qualities you need in a step 5 defender and will fit in right at home at City. Reading City have picked up a great player and guy here!”
