HAMMERS TALK: Striker target happy to stay put

11:32am Thursday 24th July 2008

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WEST Ham look set to miss out on summer transfer target Kevin Doyle.

The Republic of Ireland striker claims that despite interest from both the Hammers and Sunderland, he is happy to stay with relegated Reading.

The former Cork City striker, 24, revealed that while he would prefer to play in English football's top tier he is happy to try and help the Royals secure promotion from the Championship this season.

"I think we have got over the depression of relegation,” Doyle told the Reading Evening Post.

"You always want to play in the Premier League and we're all disappointed we're not there, but the aim is to get back there.

"But as long as I'm at Reading then I'm very happy here. I have really enjoyed my three years here, even though the last six months haven't been great.

"It has been a very enjoyable time and I'll continue to enjoy it for as long as I'm here.

"I think when I first came we would have all taken what's happened, although once you get in the Premier League you want to stay there.

"But we're not, that's life and we now have to bounce back.

"The whole hype about the Premier League is bigger, but when you are playing in matches, it all seems the same to me. They are all nice grounds in the Championship."