After starring for Telstar last season, Reading striker Andrija Novakovich is now on loan with Fortuna Sittard and looking to score the goals to maintain their top-flight status.
- By Michael Bell
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Born in the USA, Novakovich started his career playing College soccer before being picked up by English Championship side Reading at the age of 17 in 2014.
His debut season in England saw him make two brief appearances in the Championship, while he netted twice in 12 appearances for the reserves. Over the next two years, he made a further 37 appearances for Reading’s U23’s, while also spending time on loan with Cheltenham Town.
Last summer, the striker joined Eerste Divisie side Telstar and burst into life at the Dutch second division side. Telstar were a surprise package, who went from battling at the bottom to nearly gaining promotion, and part of that was thanks to Novakovich’s form in front of goal. In 38 appearances, he scored 22 goals and contributed five assists. His form earned Novakovich his first two caps for the US national team.
Novakovich returned to Reading this summer full of confidence but is still not in the English side’s plans. The 21-year-old has now joined Fortuna Sittard, who gained promotion to the Eredivisie last season, on loan for the campaign.
Style of Play
Novakovich is a towering striker, standing at 6ft 4, and is obviously a threat from crosses and set pieces, but he is also very good with the ball at his feet.
From a young age, Novakovich worked hard on his dribbling ability and it is a big part of the American’s game along with his ability to hold up play and connect with his teammates.
The man himself said on his game, “Everyone looks at my size and automatically thinks I am a target man and can head the ball. Honestly, I prefer to play a little bit and have the ball at my feet, not just headers. I’m a big guy, but I can offer a little bit more.”
What to expect from Novakovich this season
Novakovich had an excellent campaign for Telstar but the Eredivisie is a step up and another opportunity for the American to prove himself.
Fortuna Sittard did well to fight off competition from other clubs to get his signature and they will be hoping that Novakovich will score the goals to keep them in the top flight. If he can hit form then he may finally get a chance at Reading or possibly earn himself a big move abroad.
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