Reading FC interim manager Paul Ince has praised the influence of new goalkeeper Orjan Nyland.
The Norwegian keeper signed for the Royals on a free transfer after loanee Karl Hein had to return to Arsenal after being ruled out with injury for the rest of the season.
Nyland has had a positive impact in his first two appearances for the Royals having featured in the 1-1 draw at AFC Bournemouth and the win over Blackburn Rovers.
The 31-year-old has not only had success on the pitch, but has recently also celebrated the birth of his new child during the international break.
“He’s a top keeper. He’s played in a League cup final,” said Ince.
“The Villa situation doesn’t determine who he is, he’s the number one for his national team.
“It was a disaster with Karl (Hein), because he was a very good keeper and then for him to get injured for the rest of the season.
“But to get someone with the quality of Nyland was a really big plus for us and he’s just had a baby which is a really nice thing and he’ll now look forward to coming back from the international break.
“He’s got a very good presence about him and made two very good saves against Blackburn.
“When you play behind a top keeper, the defence do feel good.
“He’s a very good talker. The first day in the changing room and before the Blackburn game he was talking and encouraging the boys.
“You need that because sometimes we can be a quiet team.
“You can hear his voice from a mile off, he’s a great character and the defence love playing in front of him.
“Sometimes it can be unfair because Luke (Southwood) has done well, but we want competition and he’s come in and has done really well for us.”
