Former Royals striker retires

Another member of the 106 squad has called it a day – this time, former Royals striker Dave Kitson.

The 34-year old has opted to call it a day on his 14-year professional career, where he made 472 appearances and would have probably made a few more if it wasn’t for injuries. Oxford United were Kitson’s last club, but agreed to terminate his contract due to his retirement.

Kitson unarguably enjoyed his best playing spell with us, scoring 56 league goals in 145 games, including two seasons in the Premier League. He went onto sign for Stoke for a £5.5 million fee, but never really found a regular spot in the team under Tony Pulis.

Kits had many great moments in a Royals shirt – the hat trick against West Ham, dying his hair bright blonde, the importance of the Middlesbrough goal in our first Prem game, the list goes on. He will be fondly remembered by many who watched him at the Madejski.

Who knows what the future will hold for him next? Kitson has earned himself a reputation of being very open and honest, possibly opening up a media career. There are also those who are still convinced he is the secret footballer! Either way, best of luck to him.