Carshalton Athletic are very pleased to confirm that Luke Read, a cornerstone of the Robins’ backline and a fan favourite, has committed to the club for the 2025/26 season.
The ever-reliable Read heads into his sixth season at Colston Avenue after another outstanding campaign in red and white, racking up 47 appearances, four goals, and several crucial assists across all competitions. His commanding presence, unmatched consistency, and attacking flair from deep made him a standout once again.
Manager Peter Adeniyi said: “Luke is the very definition of consistency.
Every team needs those players you can rely on week in, week out — and for us, Luke is one of them. In the five seasons we’ve had together, I can genuinely count on one hand the number of below-par performances he’s had. That level of consistency is rare, and it’s exactly why he was deservedly named Manager’s Player of the Season last year.
Whether it’s putting in a shift at training, stepping up in big moments, or just doing the simple things right every single game, Luke sets the standard. He’s not always the loudest voice in the room, but he leads by example — and his teammates know they can trust him when it matters most.
We’re absolutely buzzing to have him back for another season. Players like Luke don’t come around often — and we’re lucky to call him one of our own.”
Read’s performances did not go unnoticed. Adeniyi named him Manager’s Player of the Season, a well-deserved accolade to pair with his Player of the Season award from the previous year.
There was no shortage of classic “Ready moments” in 2024/25. Who could forget his brilliant brace in the 4–3 thriller against Billericay Town in November? With a striker’s instinct, Read popped up at the back post twice, first to level the game in the 15th minute with a poacher’s finish after a low-driven corner, then again in the second half with a composed touch from Bernie Tanner’s whipped delivery that any No. 9 would be proud of.
Upon returning from injury, Read made another match-winning impact, snatching a dramatic late goal against Potters Bar Town to spark scenes of jubilation both on the pitch and in the stands. And in the tense clash against Cheshunt, he was again in the right place at the right time to bury a clever flicked corner at the far post and secure all three points.
With 199 appearances since joining the Robins in 2018/19, Read is not only a mainstay but also a model of versatility. Originally a centre-back, he has evolved into a marauding full-back, before shifting back into central defence mid-season with composure and leadership to guide a relatively young backline. His adaptability, defensive bravery, and in-game intelligence were evident throughout, whether it was a last-ditch tackle, a goal-line clearance, or a perfectly timed surge into the penalty area.
He also possesses real quality going forward, delivering pinpoint crosses, such as the one that Tommy Bradford headed home against Hashtag United, showcasing Read’s ability to be a creative threat as well as a defensive anchor.
With his blend of experience, mentality, and moments of magic, Read remains a vital figure at the heart of this team, and we are delighted he’ll be wearing red and white again next season.
Onwards with Ready.
