Reading U21 goalkeeper George Legg has signed for Hampton & Richmond Borough after former loanee Mark Smith was recalled by Brentford.

The 19-year-old, 6ft 5ins shot-stopper has joined the Beavers on an initial 28-day youth loan after a half-season loan at Chesham was ended three weeks early .

Legg, who has also featured for Hendon, signed Ryman League registration forms yesterday (Christmas Eve) and trained with his new team-mates ahead of their Boxing Day fixture versus Staines Town.

He said: “ From my time in football, I’m aware that things can change very quickly. You always have to be prepared for the unexpected, which is part and parcel of being a professional sportsman.

On the ball: Legg has joined Hampton

“On Wednesday (December 23), I was training in the gym and glancing generally over the forthcoming fixture list, then 24 hours later, I find myself signing for Hampton and preparing for, arguably, their biggest league game of the season.

“When you go out on loan, you don’t have much time to think about too much else other than the next game. Irrespectively though, I will prepare for the match as I would do for a Reading U21 fixture.

"I’m aware that a lot rides on Saturday, so I will be well prepared both mentality and physically. I’m looking forward to the challenge."

Prior to this season, Legg was awarded a one-year professional contract by Reading at the end of his scholarship in June.