READING FC’S quest for a 20-goal striker is set to rumble on - with Paul Clement seemingly choosing not to put his faith in young Andrija Novakovic just yet.

The towering centre forward excelled for FC Telstar last season, notching more than 20 goals for the Dutch second-tier outfit.

Meanwhile, Royals’ five first-team strikers - one of whom has now left the club - found the net just times between them under Jaap Stam and Paul Clement last season.

Novakovic’s performances did not go unnoticed either and the 21-year-old was given his first-team debut for the USA.

Supporters were keen for Wisconsin-born hitman Novakovic to have a shot at Royals’ first team in the upcoming campaign.

Reading Chronicle:

However, he will instead spend next season at Fortuna Sittard in the Eredivisie, a move which was finalised just moments after he penned a fresh deal with Royals.

And some supporters were left stumped by the decision.

Posting on Twitter, fans wrote: “Why not play him? What is Clement doing?”

“Mixed feelings on this. Thought he could do a job for us.”

“So the only player who scores goals has gone. “Where are our goals going to come from?

“If you want me to renew, show some intent and ambition.”

Talented Novakovic was the second-highest goal scorer in the Dutch second-tier last season.

His new deal will see him remain as a Royal until at least 2020.

Meanwhile, young goalkeeper Lewis Ward also put pen to paper on fresh terms last week after a successful loan spell at Aldershot Town.