Focus crucial to Royals

Players must ignore rumours

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 3rd July 2008

Nicky Shorey1

Shorey: One of many linked with a top flight return

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Reading coach Kevin Dillon is hoping that transfer speculation does not affect the club's top stars.

Having suffered relegation from the Premier League last season the Royals are well aware that they have become a prime target for clubs looking to find a bargain.

The likes of Nicky Shorey, James Harper, Dave Kitson, Marek Matejovsky and Stephen Hunt have all been linked with moves back to the top flight, but Dillon expects those concerned to act professionally in the face of the incessant rumours.

In regards to Shorey's future Dillon is hopeful that the England international will decide to remain at the Madejski Stadium, but sees no reason why any member of the squad would want to leave.

Contracts

"Nicky is a top professional who has played for his country and has a top reputation in the game," he told the Reading Evening Post.

"I can guarantee he will come in this week and give 100%."

Dillon continued: "To be perfectly honest, they are all contracted to the club, as am I, as is Steve Coppell.

"We've got to go into pre-season and be professional, as we always have been."

Coca Cola Ch'ship 2008/09 Win Outright: Reading 9/1