Hunt ‘delighted’ to stay a loyal Royal

STEPHEN HUNT insists he is “delighted” to sign a new deal at Reading despite their slide down the Premier League table.

The 27-year-old Republic of Ireland midfielder is now one of the Royals’ top earners after penning an improved deal that runs until 2011.

Steve Coppell’s side have lost their last six league games and are only one point above the relegation zone, but Hunt said: “I’m delighted to sign this new deal and show my commitment to Reading. I enjoy my football here. Now we look to the rest of the season.”