Reading midfielder Hayden Mullins sad at Portsmouth exit
Last updated on .From the section Football
Ex-Portsmouth midfielder Hayden Mullins has admitted his sadness at leaving Fratton Park to join Reading on loan.
On Thursday Reading-born Mullins became the latest departure from Portsmouth as the financially troubled club looks to cut their wage bill.
"It's nice to be joining Reading on one hand but on the other I am sad to be leaving Portsmouth," Mullins told BBC Radio Berkshire.
"It is hard leaving Portsmouth, especially the state they are in."
Mullins added: "The boys are fighting for their lives, and players are leaving every other week."
The 32-year-old signed for Pompey in January 2009 from West Ham and played 129 times for them. The club, who were placed into administration last month, are currently bottom of the Championship.
Although he is sad to be leaving Portsmouth, Mullins recognises the chance to play for promotion-chasing Reading is an excellent opportunity for him.
"Ever since I've played professional football I've wanted to play for Reading," added Mullins.
"I'm from the town and have a lot of connections here so it is a brilliant move for me.
"I live locally in Ascot so I am only 15 minutes away from the training ground so the location is also good for me. But the most important thing is that it is a fantastic football club on the up. It is a fantastic opportunity for me."
Mullins revealed he almost joined the club last year and believes of the clubs chasing automatic promotion, Reading are looking like the favourites to go up.
"I know the run they are on, and it will be hard to get into the team," he added.
"I don't want to come in and upset things, I want to be part of the run if needed and if called upon I know I can do a job for the gaffer.
"I will wait and bide my time, and then take my chance when I get it.
"Reading are known for making a late charge but the run they have been on has been absolutely brilliant and now they are looking like the team that are going to go up automatically."
