Coppell says Harper is happy at Reading

8:30am Thursday 17th July 2008

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WANDERERS target James Harper is happy at Reading despite their relegation to the Championship.

Royals boss Steve Coppell does not expect his £3.5million-rated midfielder to demand a move away from the Madejski Stadium despite the queue of Premier League clubs which have enquired about his services.

Bolton, West Ham, Stoke and Middlesbrough have all been reported to have registered their interest but as yet, the club’s valuation has not been met.

Gary Megson hinted earlier this week that he is preparing to shelve his interest in the 27-year-old, who was transfer listed as a stipulation of his contract with Reading when they were relegated last season.

And Coppell, who has remained adamant that he is under no pressure to sell his top names, does not think Harper will worry about playing outside the top flight next season.

“He’s on the transfer list,” he said. “If someone meets our valuation then I’ll put it to him. But he’s quite happy to stay here and play.

“He’s spent a number of years at the club and, in a way, is excited about trying to get back in the Premier League.

“He just loves his football. He just wants to play week-in, week-out. In the Premier League I don’t think there are enough games for him. He’d like twice as many games.

“He just says, ‘If I'm going I’ll go, and if I’m staying I'll stay’ and you’ll know you’ll get 100 per cent. That’s perfect with me.”

l Wanderers youngster Tope Obadeyi is pushing for a starting place for England in tonight’s Under-19s European Championship Group game against Italy.

The teenager, who figured prominently for the reserves last season, came off the bench in Monday night’s 2-0 defeat by the Czech Republic.