Coppell hints at big spend

Reading boss wants to bolster squad

By Laura Slatcher   Last updated: 7th October 2007

Steve Coppell Reading manager Football

Coppell: New signings

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Reading manager Steve Coppell has hinted at his intention to bring in new faces in the January transfer window.

The Royals have been cautious during their time in the Premier League with only striker Leroy Lita and midfielder Emerse Fae costing seven-figure sums.

The club have endured a poor start to the current campaign, and Coppell wants to add experienced players to take them up the table.

"In January we have to strengthen this squad, not because we are in any kind of panic situation but because of a desire to be a player in this league rather than a bit-part," he said.

Gamble

"Every signing you make is a gamble but it is amazing how the more you pay the less of a gamble it is - and you want the odds stacked in your favour as much as possible.

"We have scouts all over the place and a refined network trying to isolate the players we think could help us.

"I always say it is a fairly limited market that we work in because of the perception of Reading but it is amazing how money talks.

"We might have to pay more than the going rate for a few people to make ourselves stronger, better and more resilient in this league."