Rifat leaves the Royals

RIFAT LEAVES ROYALS

The centre back has failed to establish himself in Steve Coppell's squad and leaves after 3 years in Berkshire and he is expected to join Martin Allen's Brentford.

The former Charlton Athletic trainee signed for the Royals in 2001 and was rewarded with a 3 year academy contract.

However Rifat found the going tough with the team doing so well under the guidance of Alan Pardew and the emergence of Peter Castle, who signed a 5 year contract on his 17th birthday.

This season appeared to be his last chance however Rifat has fallen behind Johnny Mullins, who has been loaned to Kidderminster Harriers and has made an instant impact.

Staying with Mullins, he has returned to the Royals temporarily after catching the mumps. It's a setback for Mullins who has played 9 matches for Harries and has got on the score sheet once.

He is expected to be out of action for 2 weeks.

We wish Ahmet all the best!