STEVE Clarke has moved to bolster his depleted Reading FC midfield by handing a trial to American ace Dillon Powers.

The 24-year-old is training with the Royals for a fortnight in a bid to secure a move to England.

Clarke is running out of options in midfield following long-term injuries to Stephen Quinn, Aaron Tshibola and Hal Robson-Kanu, none of whom are likely to play again this year.

Powers currently plays for MLS outfit Colorado Rapids, where his teammmates include ex-Reading striker, Kevin Doyle.

The Texas-born player was named the MLS ‘Rookie of the Year’ after an impressive debut season in 2013.

He played 32 matches for Rapids, scoring three goals and making six assists, during last season, which ended in October.

But the ex-USA Under 20 international is eager to enhance his career over the Atlantic and has joined Royals on a two-week trial.

It is thought Powers owns an Italian passport, meaning he will not require a work permit.

Royals have also taken 31-year-old free agent, Kevin Foley, on trial this week with a view to permanent signing.

The former Wolves and Republic of Ireland full-back had been training with League 1 Shrewsbury Town until he accepted an invitation from Clarke to train with the Royals.

It is thought Foley is keen to win a contract with Reading until the end of the season.

Foley has been working his way back to fitness following a shoulder operation and he was released by Danish club FC Copenhagen in the summer.

He was a firm favourite at Wolves after making 213 appearances for the club between 2007 and 2015, winning their Player of the Year in 2009  when they won promotion to the Premier League.

Meanwhile, Clarke has been heavily linked with a move for out-of-favour Sunderland striker Liam Bridcutt.

Cardiff City and Leeds United are also rumoured to be tracking the 26-year-old Scotland international.