Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Grace Moloney extends contract with FA Cup semi-finalists Reading

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Grace Moloney has signed a new contract of unspecified length with Women’s Super League side Reading.

The 26-year-old has established herself as number one this season ahead of recent signing Rachel Laws following the departure of England international Mary Earps to Wolfsburg.

Moloney has spent the past 17 years with the Royals on and off, having initially joined at the age of nine, so was always likely to sign back on the dotted line once terms were agreed.

“It was an easy decision. I’ve been at the club a long time.” Maloney told the club’s media team.

“I’ve known Kelly [Chambers, manager] for years and I feel in the last couple of years I’ve come a long, got myself in better shape, and to progress here is a big deal for me.”

The London-born stopper has represented Ireland all the way from under-17s to senior level, and was named under-19 international player of the year in 2011.

Moloney spent some time on loan with Aston Villa in 2016 and returned to win her place in the side, helping the Royals to an FA Cup semi-final last month, which they lost on penalties to West Ham.

“When I came back off loan, I really settled down, got my head right, and without Kelly and the coaching staff I don’t think I would be in the position I am now signing a new contract.”