We’ve already seen plenty of Sam – most recently playing in a back three, but also showing his ability in midfield and as part of a back four.

So there’s versatility on offer – as well as a real desire to play a big part for the Royals.

“There’s a misconception about me that I run around like a headless chicken and tackle!” he continued. “That was job at Sheffield Wednesday for a couple of years, but I came through Chelsea’s academy playing football out from the back.

“Wherever I get put, I try my hardest. That’s one thing I can guarantee: I’ll give 100%, every game.

“That’s the least any professional athlete can do. And if you don’t, fans will get on your back! You can’t play well every game, but I am going to try to do the best I can for the club, and I want the best for this club. Fingers crossed we can do that.

“This is a hard league, and the more experienced heads that we have to deal with adversity – and fingers crossed, the good times too – then we can have a good season.

“The manager has been really good – I can’t speak highly enough of the staff and the gaffer. They’re given me a chance so I’m not going to say anything else! But the manager and Alex Rae are just real footballing men. They got me straight away – I’m not interested in the politics, I just want to play football.”

Hutch: “I’ll give 100%, every game… I just want to play football!”