Reading youngster Andrija Novakovich is looking to make his mark in a loan spell at Dutch 2nd division side SC Telstar.

And the striker is hoping to hit the ground running for the new season.

“I am looking forward to the season! The manager, technical director, and really everyone at the club has been brilliant.

They’ve been helpful in the process of settling in a new environment. The group of lads are a good bunch with real quality!”

Novakovich, 20, has now been out on loan twice in his career so far, having previously being on loan at Cheltenham Town earlier in his short career.

“I started my professional career at Reading FC. I had a short loan spell at Cheltenham in the conference. I am currently on my second loan move in Holland for SC Telstar in the Jupiter League.”

He also stated the importance behind gaining first team football whilst out on loan.

“I think loans are helpful for young players. I was at Cheltenham for only a month and I learned many lessons about the nature of football and life in general.

The youngster has also represented his national side (USA) from under 17 level and regularly features for the side in the higher age groups.

He has however made his first team debut for Reading already, as he featured in their match against Watford as a late substitute.

“The proudest moment of my career so far was making my first team debut against already prompted Watford. The atmosphere was incredible!”

The American was full of praise for the coaches and staff at Reading who have worked him hard over the years.

“The staff at Reading have influenced my career massively. Eamonn Dolan, Nick Hammond, David Dodds, Martin Kuhl and Michael Gilks were the ones who believed in me and gave me the chance.

“Of course there were ups and downs, but they were always very approachable and knowledgable in any situation. They showed me the positives and negatives of football, and I am very thankful for them.”

He had an excellent relationship with the late Eamonn Dolan and recalled one of his memories with the former academy manager.

“He was the one who believed in me and gave me a chance to pursue my dream.

My favourite memory of Eamonn was our conversation we would have when I was struggling on the pitch or with life in general. He always knew how to build me up and remind me of my qualities and to never give up. One of a kind man.”

One of the negatives that Novakovich has had during his career is an iron deficiency problem, but the youngster has since shown remarkable progress.

“I’ve had an iron deficiency problem that put me out of action for a few months. Injuries and illnesses can also be helpful if you look at the positives from them.

You learn to come back stronger and work harder to stay out on the pitch, rather than in the physio room!”

Novakovich also heaped praise on Royals youngsters Liam Kelly and Tennai Watson for making their breakthrough to the first team last season.

“It’s brilliant to see the boys getting their chance in the first team. Liam and Tennai have worked hard, and it’s always nice to see that pay off.”

He will be looking to force his way into the Reading first team after his loan spell at Telstar, but Novakovich is aiming to give his all for the Dutch side this season.

“My individual aim this season is to enjoy my football and do all that I can to help the club reach their goals.

My message to the fans of Telstar is that I will give my best for or goal. Come on White Lions Brul mee!”

You can follow Andrija’s progress over in Holland this season here! (@AndrijaNovakov3)