Blackburn striker Jason Roberts joins Reading

Jason Roberts drops down to the Championship after five years at Blackburn (Getty Images)

Striker Jason Roberts has today signed an 18-month contract with npower Championship club Reading.

It brings to an end Roberts' five-and-a-half-year stint with Blackburn where he made over 150 appearances, scoring 29 goals.

The 34-year-old had fallen out of favour under Rovers boss Steve Kean due to a contract dispute, with the last of his 12 appearances this season just under seven weeks ago.

A statement on Rovers' official website www.rovers.co.uk: "Jason Roberts has today signed for Reading Football Club.

"The 34-year-old centre forward links up with the Championship club, with the terms of the transfer undisclosed."

Despite a troubled last few weeks, with Roberts declaring his frustration at his lack of football, he leaves Ewood Park on good terms.

Via his Twitter account, Roberts said: "I have enjoyed every moment of my time at the club.

"I have so many friends at the club that I will always want the best for BRFC. I wish the fans, staff and players success now and forever!"

Royals chairman Sir John Madejski believes manager Brian McDermott has pulled off a transfer coup.

Speaking on the club's website, Madejski said: "I am delighted a man of Jason Roberts' calibre has decided to sign for Reading.

"He will bring enormous experience to the club, and I wish him every success in helping his new team-mates."

Roberts' capture is part of a double header for Reading, who have also confirmed the signing of Derby midfielder Tomasz Cywka.

The 23-year-old has joined on a free transfer until the end of the season, turning down a more permanent move to his native Poland with Slask Wroclaw.

Madejski added: "I'd like to welcome Tomasz to Reading. This move gives him the opportunity to show everyone his talents."

Blackburn, meanwhile, appear poised to sign Scott Sutter from Swiss side Young Boys where he has fallen out of favour.

It is understood the English-born full-back has been allowed to leave Young Boys' winter training camp in Spain to start talks on a move to the Barclays Premier League.

PA