Reading Football Club News

• Nickname:Royals
• Founded:1871
• Manager:Brian McDermott

• Ground:Madejski Stadium
• Capacity:24,200

Royals pledge to keep Hunt

11 Jan 2008 - 07:35:16

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Reading boss Steve Coppell claims he has no intention of selling Stephen Hunt following a fresh approach from Sunderland for the midfielder.

The Black Cats reportedly upped their offer for the Republic of Ireland international to £4.5million on Thursday.

But Coppell is adamant the hard-working midfielder will not be leaving the Madejski Stadium.

The 26-year-old was recently rewarded for his impressive form with improved terms on an existing contract.

"They can come calling every day - there is no positive response from us in that direction," said Coppell.

"The reality was that they made a bid but we would like our core players to be happy staying here.

"There are some clubs that, whether we like it or not, when they come calling then it is hard to turn it down, for the club and the player.

"But he has a really strong connection with this club. He was a free transfer from Brentford when we signed him and, although there is not a debt by any means, he has a good feeling about this place."