Fozzy Hoping For First Team Run

Last updated : 21 October 2002 By Rob Cooper

Nicky Forster celebrates his hat-trick with team mate Sammy Igoe and mascot Kingsley
Nicky Forster celebrates his hat-trick with team mate Sammy Igoe and mascot Kingsley
Former England under 21 forward Forster is hoping manager Alan Pardew will make him a permanent fixture in his starting line-up after his hat-trick against Ipswich on Saturday.

Fozzy banged in all three goals as Reading defeated their Sulfolk-based counterparts 3-1.

After recovering from a virus at the start of the season the form of Butler and Cureton saw the former Brentford man forced to play a bit-part role, and often featuring out of position on the left wing.

"I haven't been outspoken here but I've been frustrated because I wanted to play up front," admitted Forster, speaking to readingfc.co.uk.

"I had to sit and wait because we've got some very good strikers here, hopefully I can stay in the side now. Scoring goals by no means guarantees you'll keep your place in the side - it's about general play as well."

The second goal of Fozzy's three was an unbelievable turn and shot from far out in a wide position.

"I was delighted with it. I got a good ball down the line from Adie and I saw the keeper shuffle across so I smashed it early and luckily it went across him.

"I think it caught him by surprise - I don't suppose he expected me to shoot from there," commented the Royals striker.