Shane Long

Shane Long is a striker, born on 22 January 1987 in Gortnahoe, Ireland.

In 1994 Shane became a trainee of the Borris St. Kevins academy, where he started to comprehend football life, take part in youth tournaments and develop his skills so that to become a professional footballer in future. In 2002 Long drew the attention of Saint Michaels scouts and went on a trial the same year. He impressed the coaching staff in a demonstration game and was admitted to the academy of the club. From 2002 till 2004, Shane was a trainee of the academy and prepared himself to a big start in professional football.

In the summer 2004 Long was offered to move to Cork City, which meant he was going to begin his professional career after penning a contract. The footballer spent the 2004/2005 season on the substitutes’ bench and made only one appearance. However, he did not have much time to worry about it as English side Reading bought the Irish striker in the summer 2005 and made him the pivot of the attacking line.

Shane made a confident start in 2005/2006, netting several goals by the end of the first half of the season. The head coach put him in the starting line-up for almost every match and was absolutely right, because the footballer had a scoring flare, made solid display and continued to develop his skills. He took part in 174 matches and amassed 46 goals during six years in the club.

In the summer 2011 Shane ended his Reading spell by West Bromwich move and signed a long-term contract with the new team. He clinched the place of the anchor striker and kicked 22 goals in 87 matches during two and a half seasons.

In January 2014 Long completed a move to Hull City.

From 2007 Shane Long has been capped for the Republic of Ireland national team.