Coppell looks to new Lita

Reading boss Steve Coppell hopes Leroy Lita has matured as a player this season.

The former Bristol City man has been dogged by off-the-field controversy, forcing Coppell to have words with the striker.

Lita has been handed a first team run of late due to Kevin Doyle's injury and the Reading boss has been delighted with his response to the extra responsibility.

"It has been a test of character for Leroy, and you have to remember 18 months ago he was playing two divisions lower than this," Coppell told the Daily Express.

"You see him around the club and then hear about his problems, and the two just don't link. I hope he has put all that behind him and that a lesson has been learnt.

"He has consistently scored and that is the sign of good progress. Kevin will be back in three weeks, but he is not an automatic selection."