Reading Football Club News

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

• Ground:Madejski Stadium
• Capacity:24,200

Shorey close to Royals exit

06 Aug 2008 - 13:34:11

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Reading boss Steve Coppell is keen to sign a new left-back after admitting that he expects Nicky Shorey to leave the club this week.

The 27-year-old, who has been linked with Portsmouth and West Ham United, has made almost 300 first-team appearances for the Royals since making his debut more than seven years ago.

Coppell admitted to the club's official website: "Without being specific about any destination, I expect Nicky to be gone by the time we kick-off this weekend.

"Of course I'd love him, even now, to turn around and say 'you know what, I don't fancy a move, I've spent so many years at Reading, I want to stay here and help guide them back into the Premier League'.

"But, he's been consistent right from this time last year. He's said he wanted to go, try a fresh challenge. We'll see what happens but I imagine he'll be gone.

"We'll have a problem at left-back now, I'll be the first to admit that.

"Any possible purchases in that department over this summer haven't materialised, partly because I'm a little fussy and partly because I was thinking Nicky might stay.

"I'd hope to do something for the weekend, but it's not guaranteed. In the short term I have faith in (Stephen) Hunt or whoever plays."