Reading Football Club has announced that versatile Zimbabwe international Tivonge Rushesha has put pen to paper on a new one-year contract, extending his stay with the Royals until the summer of 2026.
The agreement sees Rushesha, affectionately known as ‘Tiv’, enter his third season in the blue and white hoops.
Rushesha, who joined Reading from Swansea City in the summer of 2023, has steadily become an integral part of the squad.
In his debut season, he featured 11 times, before making a further 18 appearances last season, showcasing his adaptability across different positions.
A key attribute for the Royals, Rushesha’s versatility allows him to operate effectively at right-back or in central midfield.
This proved particularly valuable towards the end of last season, where he emerged as a crucial component of Noel Hunt’s side, starting six of the final ten games of the campaign.
First Team Manager Noel Hunt expressed his delight at securing Rushesha’s services.
“Tiv is a great lad,” commented Hunt. “I worked with him at U21 level, so coming into the job I knew his character, how hard he works and how much of an asset he can be to the team. He grew into the team towards the end of last season, filling in at right back and in midfield, so we are delighted to have him back for another season.”
While yet to make his senior debut for the Zimbabwe Warriors, Rushesha has been called into the national team camp in recent years, highlighting his growing reputation on the international stage.
Rushesha’s new deal underscores his commitment to Reading and the club’s belief in his potential to contribute further to their ambitions in League One.
Fans will be eager to see how the young Zimbabwean continues to progress in the upcoming season.
