Kitson sale good business for Reading

Damn! It wasn't a nightmare, we did get relegated. It might seem an obvious thing, but the realisation that Reading are now a Championship side again has most definitely sunk in after Dave Kitson's defection to Stoke (obviously he must really like Robbie Williams or something).

Things could have been so different. Having thrashed Derby 4-0, we actually only needed to score another couple of goals (which watching it at the time was a realistic possibility, especially in the second half) and we would still be in the football bosom that is the Premiership.

Oh well Kitson is gone, and we are down. The Kitson sale has actually been a supreme piece of business. Brought 5 years ago for a mere £150K, £5.5 million for a player nearing 30 is a great return. Old "what a bargain" Kitson has been a good servant for Reading and I was so happy that he was the player that scored our first Premiership goal. Cultured and technically a little reminiscent of a young Teddy Sherigham (ok Teddy Sheringham was never young, being born and staying at the age of 35), Kitson deserves a chance in the England set up and another crack at the Premiership.

Don't get me wrong, I am gutted, but the stark realisation is that Reading don't need four, high quality strikers in the Championship. Essentially, I would rather have three first class strikers and keep some of the other players, invest in another couple, and lose Kitson. There will be more to come, even young Nicky Hammond has said that. See, I told you it wasn't a nightmare.

But never fear, young Messrs Madejski, Hammond and Coppell are canny buggers, with the gaffer already putting an unofficial deadline for Premiership vultures of August 10. After this only "acceptable bids plus a hefty premium" will be considered.

So be aware the West Hams, Pompeys and Middlesbrough of this world - the clock is ticking. Our reality could become other people's nightmares (ok, headache).

Next subject – transfers – who will stay and who will go. And what I think about all that. Stay tuned.

- Michael Hanbidge

Comments

[Boris Chegwin]

Agree - Kitson sale is a fine bit of business. Always a shame to see good players go (would include Glenn Little in that), but fans should concentrate on Kits's great service to the club, including - can we forget it - the club's first, scrambled, gutsy goal in the Premiership. So good luck o him. As for the club, much now depends on who else follows. If Lita, Shorey, Hunt and Harper go, the next season could be tough.