Coppell: Lita's unlucky

Lita: Out for three weeks

Steve Coppell expects Leroy Lita to be out for at least three weeks after suffering a freak injury.

The Reading striker picked up a leg injury after stretching in bed upon waking up.

Coppell understands why the situation has prompted some light-hearted comments, but admits it is serious for Lita and Reading.

With the England Under 21 international set to be out of the opening game of the season against Manchester United, Coppell lamented Lita's misfortune.

Ridicule

"I knew this would be a point of ridicule," Coppell told Sky Sports News.

"It was stupid it come out really.

"From what I've been led to believe he got injured just stretching in the morning.

"It's a point of laughter, but it's a serious business for him.

"He's going to be out for three or four weeks, or whatever it is.

"It is a legitimate injury caused in a way which, ordinarily, wouldn't affect anybody in the population anywhere, but he's been massively unlucky."