Shorey Keen To Evade Europe

Reading`s impressive left-back, Nicky Shorey, believes that venturing into competition with Europe`s elite would be premature for his team next season.

Shorey, like his Reading team-mates, has enjoyed superb first steps in his Premiership existence, and as a result, finds his club in clear contention for a place in the UEFA Cup.

Vital Reading recently reported that Shorey`s boss, Steve Coppell, has warned of the dangers of qualifying for European competition, and the tidy defender understands his manager`s sentiments.

The full-back admits that, while it would be an outstanding achievement for the Royals and would be beyond anyone`s wildest expectations, it could be too soon for the club to be participating on the continent.

‘It’d be lovely to get into Europe and the fans would love it I’m sure,’ Shorey explained.

‘But maybe it is a bit too premature to be playing in Europe. You’ve got to have a massive squad for that kind of competition.’

Shorey has been in solid form for the Royals this season and his displays have prompted talk of a call-up to the England squad.

Coppell feels the left-back deserves a place in the setup and Shorey admits he would relish the chance to be involved.

He added, ‘It’s nice to get talked about in the international scene and I’d love to play for England one day.

‘A lot of people say lesser clubs get overlooked a bit, I wouldn’t like to think that’s the case, but you never know.

‘I think if you’re playing well, and are playing in the top league, it doesn’t matter who you’re playing for.

‘If you’re playing well in the top league, you should be given a chance.’