Sport · Reading
Kyreece Lisbie: The winger fighting his way to the top at Reading FC
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
After overcoming multiple rejections from professional clubs, Reading FC's newest signing is making an immediate impact in League One.
Kyreece Lisbie has emerged as one of the most exciting prospects in League One since joining Reading FC this summer. The 22-year-old winger has hit the ground running, recording five goal involvements in just six league games, a performance that has quickly endeared him to the supporters at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
His current form, which includes leading the league in assists alongside Lewis Bale and Kyran Lofthouse, stands in stark contrast to a career defined by early setbacks. Lisbie, son of former Charlton Athletic and Leyton Orient striker Kevin Lisbie, spent years navigating the difficult reality of professional football development after being told at age 15 by Colchester United that he was not good enough.
Following his release from the Leyton Orient youth setup, Lisbie dropped into non-league football with Cray Valley. His talent eventually secured him a trial with Watford, though he was released after one year. A move to the Brentford B team in 2022 proved to be a turning point, where he refined his game under the guidance of Neil MacFarlane and Sam Saunders over three productive seasons. He described his time with the Bees as a transformational period that turned him into the professional athlete he is today.
The winger's trajectory took another positive turn with a loan spell at Braintree Town, followed by a breakthrough campaign with Colchester United in the 2025/26 season, where he notched 19 goal contributions across 51 appearances. This form drew interest from several clubs, including Peterborough, Oxford, Huddersfield, and Sheffield Wednesday, but the Royals successfully secured his signature.
Lisbie, whose twin brother Kyrell currently plays for Millwall, has spoken of his gratitude for the opportunity to compete at this level. 'My journey from non-league to League One is something I am very grateful for,' Lisbie said. 'But we are not satisfied where we are. Our aspirations and dreams are to play at the highest level possible.'
As he continues to build a dangerous partnership with Jack Marriott in the Reading attack, Lisbie appears determined to prove that the initial doubts about his ability were misplaced. For the Reading faithful, his arrival represents a blend of pace, technical ability, and a hunger to climb the football pyramid that could prove vital for the club’s ambitions this season.
Source: Reading Chronicle — Sport · View original