Church held to ransom over move

Reading striker Simon Church will only be allowed on a loan move away, if he agrees a new contract with the Royals, according to Reading Post writer Jonny Fordham.

Many were expecting Church to depart the Madejski Stadium on loan during the summer transfer window, but a move was not finalised, with Brian McDermott wanting to extend the Welsh international’s contract. His deal is set to run out at the end of the current season, which means he would be able to speak to other clubs in January.

The academy graduate is still able to make the loan move away from the club in the next few weeks, despite the window closing yesterday. However, Church will want clarification on his future after failing to play any part in the Premier League so far and being pushed further down the pecking order with the return of the suspended Jason Roberts.