Coppell handed cash for January sales

Reading director of football Nick Hammond has revealed that Steve Coppell will have funds available to strengthen his squad in the January transfer window.

Coppell endured a frustrating summer in the transfer market – spending only £2.5m on Emerse Fae – and has subsequently seen his side experience a difficult second season in the Premier League.

However, it appears he will now be given the necessary financial backing from the Royals’ board as they bid to consolidate their top-flight place.

Hammond told the club’s official website, www.readingfc.premiumtv.co.uk: “We had a very positive board meeting on Monday with the chairman, Steve Coppell, Nigel Howe (chief executive), Ian Wood-Smith (director) and myself.

“Steve and I spoke about our plans for the existing squad, as well as potential additions that may be made in January.

“The board were very receptive and we have again been assured that financial support will be there.

“With the January window less than a fortnight away, we have started to home in on specific targets and conversations with clubs are progressing.

“We have a very firm idea of what we’d like to do.”