Steve Coppell is trying to encourage Dave Kitson to become more clinical in the penalty area as Reading look to climb away from the drop zone.The 28-year-old has scored eight goals in what has been a difficult season for the Royals after their first campaign in the top flight last year, which saw them just miss out on qualification for Europe.

Although an improvement in their form has seen Reading inch away from the Premier League's bottom three, Coppell is urging Kitson to become more involved in front of goal.

Coppell told the club's official website: "We try and demand he stays up the field because that is where he is more effective.

"The big fellas look as if they don't have the same passion and desire as the shorter swifter-footed players. Yet his determination to do well individually and for the team is unparalleled."

Reading host Blackburn on Saturday looking for a win which could take them eight points clear of danger.

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