Little Unlikely To Complete Royals Move

Last updated : 07 July 2003 By Rob Cooper
Little, in action for Burnley, challenges Forster for the ball
Little (right), in action for Burnley, challenges Forster for the ball
Glen Little will not be wearing a Reading shirt next season. The 27-year-old, who spent two months on loan at the Madejski Stadium last season, is unlikely to leave Burnley as none of the clubs interested in signing him have the necessary capital to be able to afford his wages, it has been revealed.

Reading and Preston were previously believed to be very keen on securing Little's services for the new season.

The right-winger had been muted as a possible replacement for winger Sammy Igoe who has joined Swindon Town. But, Alan Pardew preferred instead to invest £650,000 in Scott Murray who is available on much lower wages.

Little, who is paid a reported £8,000 per week, is one of Burnley's best players but blows hot and cold at times. With the Clarets in financial trouble they would dearly like to let Little go.

Speaking to thisislancashire.co.uk the former Irish league player confirmed: "I knew a long while ago the Reading thing wasn't going to happen because wages were always a problem.

"At the end of the day, if you haven't got the money, you haven't got the money. But I have always said I will get on with things in a professional manner and I am perfectly happy at Burnley.

"It's not really up to me and things might still happen, but I'm not looking to get away."

Little had some very good games during his time with Reading and Reading MAD believe that Alan Pardew may yet launch a late-summer bid for the London born player - but only if a move for Scott Murray falls through.

We investigated the possibility of Little joining Reading a couple of weeks ago. You can read that story here.

Knowing that a move to Reading is not likely to materialise the massive winger went onto admit that he is looking forward to the start of the new season.

The Clarets will look to challenge for a play-off place next season, but only if they can sort out their shocking back line. Stan Ternent's side had the division's worst defensive record last year.

Little added: "I was back in for a few days last week getting checked over - and today there will be a buzz about the place with a few new signings on board."