Reading manager Steve Coppell admits Ulises De La Cruz was "without doubt one of the best professionals I have worked with".The Ecuador international, 34, was released following the club's relegation from the Premier League.

But Coppell told the club's official website: "If anyone phones me about him I would recommend him to them 100%, absolutely.

"From our point of view it was just time for a change and the evolution of the squad for the challenge ahead. We just had players we have longer commitments to."

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