Steve Coppell admits that allowing Ulises De La Cruz leave Reading was a difficult decision for him to make.

The Royals boss released the 34-year-old defender after his second season with the Club. During that time the former Hibernian and Aston Villa man was often a fringe player, and he make just 25 appearances in total over two years.

But Coppell says the Equadorian's attitutde and commitment was first class during that time. He said,  "Ulises De La Cruz is without doubt one of the best professionals I have ever worked with.

"If anyone phones me about him, I would recommend him to them 100%, absolutely.

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

De La Cruz is now a free agent and has been linked to moves to clubs in the American Major Soccer League and the Spanish Second Division.