Royals Must Sell Before They Can Buy

Last updated : 30 April 2002 By Rob Cooper
Chief Scout Brian McDermott revealed that Royals duo Alex Smith and Ricky Allaway are no longer wanted at the club and are available on free transfers. He went on to say that Alan Pardew must sell before he can buy this summer in an interview with readingfc.co.uk:

"Alex Smith and Ricky Allaway, who both have a year left on their contracts, are available on free transfers."

"As it stands, Alan hasn't got any money available to make new signings, so if we want to bring anyone in we'll have to generate the cash ourselves."

So as with a lot of clubs this summer there is not expected to be much transfer activity – mainly down to the ITV Digital situation.

Alex Smith signed just last year from Port Vale on a bosman transfer made seventeen appearances and will be surprised that he is allowed to leave after looking impressive in his opening few games at the club. Ricky Allaway meanwhile, brother of young goalkeeper Shaun at Leeds, has never played for the first team despite much being expected of him.

Young Reading forward Nathan Tyson may be playing at the Millennium Stadium next Monday, the Bank Holiday, he is currently on loan at Division Three club Cheltenham and they will be in the play off final if they overcome Hartlepool United after drawing 1-1 away in the first leg.