The Royals’ summer transfer business appears now to be kicking into gear. After the arrivals of Kyreece Lisbie and Udoka Godwin-Malife, Reading snapped up Jacob Brown on Thursday, with the forward penning a two-year deal after being released by Luton Town.
So, having got the Burton Albion view on Godwin-Malife, how about the lowdown on Brown from a Hatters supporter? Reading’s new forward spent three years at Kenilworth Road, joining a then-Premier League Luton before back-to-back relegations down to League One.
Telling us more about Brown is Luton outlet Oak Road Hatter. You can find them on Twitter @OakRoadHatter, their YouTube page here and podcast here. Thanks to them for their insight.
How would you sum up his time at Luton?
Tough for all concerned. He seemed to be injured for the most part, managing only 19 Premier League appearances during the 2023/24 season, 29 during the 2024/25 season and seven in the 2025/26 season before heading out on loan.
What style of forward is he positionally/tactically?
We signed him as a pressing forward, someone who would be able to lead from the front either centrally or from either wing. Personally, I think he’s better playing as a winger in a front three, cutting in off the left and using his pace to get in behind the defensive line.
What are his main strengths?
Pressing for sure. We didn’t see enough of him but, when we did, he was generally a willing runner and you could see he was also he was a decent finisher despite his record for us.
Any weaknesses?
Staying fit! That will be the biggest challenge for him this season and I think you’ll do well to get more than 30 games out of him.
What are your stand-out memories of him for good or bad reasons?
Two good memories. The winning goal vs Crystal Palace during our Premier League campaign, and scoring the final goal in a 3-0 home win vs Watford the following season.
What’s his character like?
Can’t comment too much but comes across as a decent guy. He’s just been really unfortunate with injuries for us and came back unable to make an impact.
Will he be a success for Reading?
If you can keep him fit and he plays in a system that suits his pressing strengths, I can see him being a success and being able to contribute goals and assists, just hopefully not on the opening day of the league season!
