‘I know what I’m capable of’: Young Reading striker on filling ‘big’ Sam Smith shoes

Reading striker Jayden Wareham is ready to’show the fans who I am’ following Sam Smith’s departure.

Smith, 26, moved to Wrexham for £2 million on Friday, leaving a vacancy up top after scoring 27 goals in 63 games since his return in 2023.

Wareham, 21, is the only other designated number nine, having started only his third League One match of the season in his place in Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Bolton Wanderers.

Wareham, like the fans, was disappointed to see his teammate leave, but he plans to utilise the situation as an opportunity.

“The transfer window is quite a big thing for the club and football in general,” he remarked before of Saturday’s trip to Huddersfield Town. “For me, I’m sitting patiently, hoping for a chance. I definitely saw the news, a significant loss and a prominent figure in the organisation, alongside Sam. For me, there was healthy competition. On a personal side, I’m relieved that I’ll now get the opportunity to demonstrate my abilities to more than just the gaffer. It’s an exciting time for me to get started right away.

“I was gutted because Sam was such a huge personality and a fantastic player for us, scoring a lot of goals. The supporters and everyone at the club adore him; he’s a fantastic man. Then I thought, “Hopefully, I’ll get my chance,” because it wasn’t guaranteed that I’d play. It was an opportunity for me to acquire minutes and game time, so I was thrilled.”

With nearly 40 appearances, mostly cameos, since joining from Chelsea Under-21s, the forward has been prolific in the young setup but has only one league goal, which came in a win against Exeter City in October.

However, the former Woking forward is prepared to change that.

“I’ve had enormous shoes to fill since Sam left, and I simply want to show the audience who Jayden Wareham is. I know I’m young and have a lot to learn–I’m learning new things every day–but I know what I can accomplish. I can score goals, and being the type of player I am, they will come in quickly. I am confident, and that is all that matters right now.