ADRIAN Popa quashed speculation he is set to leave Reading FC - insisting he his happy to stay and fight for his place.

Foreign media reports claimed Royals' hierarchy had told the Romanian international he was free to leave Berkshire after strengthening the squad over the summer transfer window.

The winger now faces competition from the likes of Sone Aluko, Modou Barrow, Garath McCleary and Roy Beerens for a place in Jaap Stam's starting team.

But Popa, 29, insists he has no plans on leaving Madjeski Stadium and says he wants to battle for his place in the team, despite Stam telling him his first-team opportunities will be limited this season.

Posting on social media, he stated: "I have to clarify a few things, after the latest articles in the press.

The leadership of my current team, Reading, never said I was fired, that I had to find a new team or they don't need me anymore.

"In the new season, I started almost all of the games, I played a lot, and the coach explained to me that in the aftermath of the transfers, the competition would be bigger than before and that I might not play as much.

"But I must prepare the same and every player will have his chance."

Popa played a pivotal role in Royals' 2-1 victory over Aston Villa at Madejski Stadium last month, scoring via a heavy deflection which was later deemed to be an own goal.

But he has not featured in Reading's last two league games.

He continued: "My relationship with the staff is a professional, based on honesty, and I appreciate the coach telling me these things, which have not been the media in Romania."

Popa could be in contention to start tonight when Royals face Swansea City in the Carabao Cup (8pm KO).