Lita eyes England impact

Reading striker Leroy Lita hopes to translate his successful summer with the Under 21 squad into a long and prosperous career at senior level with England.

Lita finished as his country's top scorer as England lost valiantly in the semi-final of the European Under 21 Championship, and was the only member of Stuart Pearce's squad to be included in Uefa's team of the tournament.

Aware that many players have shone at junior level then never managed to impress after making the step-up, Reading's hot-shot is hoping to prove his long-term worth if handed the chance by Steve McClaren.

"I don't want one full senior cap, I want loads of them," Lita said in an interview with Zoo Magazine.

"But I still think I've got a lot more work to do yet, so I've just got to continue working hard at my game and scoring goals and we'll see from there."

Lita played a prominent role for Reading as they exceeded all expectations in finishing eighth last season, but the former Chelsea trainee is aware that Steve Coppell's men can not afford to be complacent in the coming months.

When asked what his goals for next season were, Lita replied: "Work harder and improve.

"Next season's going to be a tougher year for Reading. We're still young in the Premiership but we're looking forward to the challenge.

"Steve Coppell's the most honest guy you can get and I've got all respect in the world for him.

"But with the Reading lads it's our mentality [that keeps them grounded]. We're all focused and enjoy playing."

Read the full article in Zoo Magazine, out now.