SAM BALDOCK revealed he turned down a number of offers to hold out for a move to Reading FC.

The 29-year-old striker completed his long-awaited transfer on Monday after weeks of negotiations between Royals and Brighton & Hove Albion.

And Baldock, who fell out of favour at Amex Stadium, stressed he wants to rediscover his goal-scoring touch with Reading.

“We’ve been working on this move for quite a long time,” said Baldock.

“I heard of the interest in the off-season and straight away it was the one which excited me the most.

“I wanted to get back to pushing for a starting position with a club and this is the right move for me.

“I’ve been a team player throughout my career except for a couple of seasons where I was the main goal-getter.

“I’m hoping that will be my role again in this team, but if I find myself not being able to achieve that, then I’ll give everything to my teammates to help them succeed.”

Baldock was forced to miss several days of training while negotiations between Reading and Brighton about his transfer fee dragged on.

But boss Paul Clement confirmed Baldock is ready to be involved against Derby County.

And the striker admitted it would be a come true to bag a debut goal.

He concluded: “Fans will see a lot of energy from me at the right times. I will put defenders under pressure and look to anticipate a mistake.

“A goal on my debut would be huge. I’ve come here to hit the ground running and drive this club up the division.

“I’m really keen to get the ball in the back of the net and thrive off of more goals.”