Coppell signed Kitson from Cambridge United in 2003 (Getty)

Reading boss Steve Coppell says he is torn over Dave Kitson joining Stoke.

The striker left the Royals last Friday for �5.5m after scoring 54 goals in 111 league starts for Reading.

Coppell told BBC Radio Berkshire: "We've got an awful lot of money for him, so from a business point of view it was good business.

"He felt strongly he wanted to get back into the Premier League as soon as possible and signing for someone else is the quickest way."

Coppell continued: "I didn't want him to go. He was one of my first signings and I think he's done ever so well for Reading. His goal ratio is magnificent and goals get you promotions."

Over the next couple of weeks I would just say, 'Be respectful: do your business if anyone's going to do it and then we can go from there.' Steve Coppell

Coppell added that there has been little interest in signing other Reading players, despite their relegation from the Premier League.

"My phone hasn't been ringing off the hook - I don't think I have had a phone call about any of the players beyond Dave Kitson," said Coppell.

"Everyone's been aware of the speculation about the players and like all unrelegated clubs you are vulnerable if Premiership clubs want your players

"We are no exception but I'll be fair to the players and if we do get realistic bids I'll make it open to the player and then he can make a decision himself."

But Coppell said if Premier League clubs are interested in signing his players, he hopes they move sooner rather than later.

Coppell added: "Over the next couple of weeks I would just say, 'Be respectful: do your business if anyone's going to do it and then we can go from there.'

"Once the season starts the transfer deadline only interferes with Reading's season and any player who is going to be sold after the season starts will be a big premium."