By Zim Sport Live Writer
Zimbabwean midfielder Andy Rinomhota has vowed to help Reading FC fight their way back into the Championship after completing a sensational return to the club. The 27-year-old academy graduate, affectionately known by Royals fans as Rino, rejoined Reading until the end of the season—sparking excitement across the fanbase.
The club announced his comeback on Wednesday, prompting a wave of nostalgia from supporters who flooded social media with clips of his famous last-minute screamer against Norwich City in 2019.
That goal, which rescued a 2–2 draw at Carrow Road, remains one of the standout moments of his first spell at the Madejski.
Speaking to the Reading Chronicle, Rinomhota made it clear that he is returning with purpose:
“My goal is to play as many games as I can and do as well as I can for the club.
To get the best results possible… aim for playoffs but you never know what could happen. I think the ideal is to get promoted by whatever means… whether that is playoffs or get on a really good run to the automatics.”
Now 28, Rinomhota believes he brings valuable experience to Reading’s young squad—experience he is eager to pass on.
“Yeah, I think the way football’s going now 28 is getting to be seen as almost old but no, I definitely don’t feel that.
This squad is a young squad so hopefully I can provide a little bit of experience and help many of the younger players in any way I can.”
The Zimbabwe international spent seven years at Reading between 2015 and 2022, making over 130 appearances and winning the Player of the Season award in 2018/19.
He later played a crucial role in helping the club stay in the Championship during the 2021/22 campaign.
After leaving on a free transfer, he joined Cardiff City, where he featured 82 times and was named Players’ Player of the Season for 2024/25.
Rinomhota’s return comes at a time when the Royals are pushing to climb out of League One after a turbulent few years. The midfielder insists he is ready to contribute immediately to the club’s resurgence.
“I definitely think I can provide a lot and help to put Reading back up the table and get them back into the Championship.”
He added that momentum will be key:
“If we can get a good run, you can see how quickly things can change.
Everyone’s working towards that goal, and I’ve come in to try and help push towards that as well.”
Rinomhota’s return is not only a boost for Reading FC, but also a point of pride for Zimbabwean football supporters who continue to follow the careers of their stars abroad.
His leadership, energy, and Championship experience could make him one of the most influential players in League One this season.