PARDS & CURO DENY RIFT RUMOURS

Last updated : 17 February 2003 By Rob Cooper
Both men have spoken to deny a fall-out, Pardew claims that Cureton hasn't been playing in the first team lately purely for footballing reasons.

Some internet sites, not Reading Mad, had wrongly reported that the pair had fallen out following the sides 5-2 win over Burnley just over two weeks ago.

Speaking to readingfc.co.uk, Curo denied that there is any truth in the speculation.

"I'm very disappointed with these rumours. Some of my family have seen them on the internet and unfortunately people seem to believe it," said Cureton.

"I'm all for people having opinions, but this is stated as though it is fact. I've not caused a problem here and I wouldn't do that. Of course I'm disappointed when I'm not playing, but this sort of thing is disheartening."

Despite the denials of any bust-up, it is widely believed that Cureton will be leaving the club at the end of the campaign when his contract expires.

The former Bristol Rovers man, who banged in 31 goals in his first season at the club, has fallen down the Madejski Stadium pecking order in recent months.

Speaking to readingfc.co.uk boss Alan Pardew admitted Cureton's contractual situation is complex.

"We both know these are very difficult circumstances (regarding his contract). He's not in the team at the moment and he will be available on a bosman at the end of the season, which puts him in a good financial position.

"It is complicated, but both myself and Jamie are trying to deal with it as intelligently as possible."

Meanwhile, Reading's game with Wolves, scheduled for Saturday 8th March at the Madejski Stadium will need to be moved as the Molineux-based side are in action in the FA Cup that weekend.