Reading's director of football Nicky Hammond insists the Royals have no intention of letting unsettled striker Leroy Lita leave this month.Reported Sunderland target Lita is believed to be considering his options after becoming frustrated by his lack of first-team opportunities, having made just five Premier League starts for Steve Coppell's side this season.

The England Under-21 international enjoyed a successful first season in the top flight during the 2006/07 campaign, grabbing seven goals.

But he is yet to get off the mark this term and feels that a move may help him to rediscover his form.

Hammond, though, has revealed the club are reluctant to let the player go as the Royals have one of the smallest squads in the division and are determined to ensure that they have adequate cover in all areas of the pitch.

"I do not expect Leroy Lita to leave during the transfer window and I still want him to commit to Reading." Hammond told the Reading Evening Post.

"I'm sure other clubs will look at the Leroy situation and think there is an opportunity there.

"But the manager has said all along he needs four forwards for healthy competition and there is hardly anyone we want to lose in the transfer window."

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