The Anglo-Nigerian midfielder was among the scorers in a comfortable away win for the Royals

Ovie Ejaria got his first goal as a permanent Reading signing after the Royals got past Derby County at Pride Park on the opening Championship weekend.

The 22-year-old Anglo-Nigerian was on loan at the Madejski Stadium last season from Liverpool, making 36 appearances in the Championship, scoring three goals and providing five assists and that was enough to make his move permanent, signing a four-year deal.

Reading went in front in the 40th minute via Portuguese forward of Angolan descent Lucas Joao, as another Anglo-Nigerian in Michael Olise provided the assist.

It was not long after when the lead doubled thanks to Ejaria in added time of first half, Lucas Joao turning provider this time.

Ejaria was on for 68 minutes, also contributing 50 touches, 20 accurate passes from 23 (87%), 100% accuracy in his dribbles (two from two attempts) and winning 10 of 13 ground duels before being replaced by Nigeria international and former Fulham forward Sone Aluko.

Ejaria’s career began at youth level at Liverpool in 2014 and he made only eight appearances for the senior team during the 2016-17 season, the only time he had an opportunity to represent them.

His other stints were on loan at Sunderland and Scottish giants Rangers where he made a combined 39 appearances.

Ejaria has been with Reading since January 2019 and has played 56 times in all competitions, scoring five goals and providing seven assists.

The Royals finished the previous season in 14th place with 56 points, eight clear of the relegation zone. Their next assignment of the new season will be a home tie against Barnsley on September 19.

source:- goal