Dave Kitson has been ruled out of Reading's promotion charge for up to three weeks.
Striker Dave Kitson has been ruled out of Reading's promotion charge for up to three weeks after suffering a hamstring injury.
The Royals' 17-goal leading scorer sustained the strain in a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace as Reading extended their unbeaten run to 29 matches.
Coppell admits that the absence of Kitson is a major blow to his side.
"He pulled his hamstring and it's the one he pulled last year, so it's not good," said Coppell.
"He will undergo intensive treatment."
Coppell will be able to console himself in the knowledge that The Royals can still call on the likes of Kevin Doyle and Leroy Lita, with the latter claiming a hat-trick in the recent FA Cup win over West Bromwich Albion.
