Striker Simon Cox signed a permanent deal at The County Ground in January 2008 after enjoying successful loan spell with Swindon.

Cox initially arrived in August 2007 on a long-term loan and made the most of his temporary stint, scoring 10 goals before his loan spell was up including a last minute penalty against Swansea City on New Years Day to secure a point.

The front man then returned to Reading and came off the bench in the FA Cup tie with Spurs at The Madejski Stadium. That proved to be his last of nine senior appearances for his hometown club. Cox had joined Reading at the age of nine and progressed up through the academy ranks before making his senior debut against Luton Town in the Carling Cup in September 2005.

Began 2008/09 with an impressive six goals in five pre-season games, which included a stunning strike against Fenerbahce in Austria whilst on tour.

Hit hat-tricks against Hartlepool United and Scunthorpe United and passed the twenty goal mark for the season against MK Dons in March.

The star performer of the season, the striker is now closing in on 30 goals for the campaign.