Reading boss Paul Ince revealed that it will not be his decision whether former England striker Andy Carroll remains at the club beyond January.

In his second spell with the club, the former Liverpool and Newcastle United forward has scored twice this season,  but is only under contract until mid-January.

Attracting interest over the summer in the UK and abroad- including Champions League side Club Brugge, the 33-year-old's stock remains high.

A fan favourite in Berkshire, Ince was asked whether the club could extend his contract beyond the current deal, with the former England captain stating it was not down to him.

Reading Chronicle:

"We have to wait until January," he said. "It won’t be my decision; it will be the agents’ decision. At the moment we’ve got him, at this club things can change but let’s enjoy today."

Carroll, a substitute in the 2-1 win over Hull City, saw his header diverted into the Tigers net by forward Ryan Longman to see the Royals go into the World Cup break on the back of a victory.

Speaking more generally on the forward, Ince said: "You know what you get from him as a Premier League player, you’re not that for nothing. When we got the free-kick, you can see big AC at six foot five running, you know things were going to happen. Fortunately for us this time, it happened and we got the goal. He’s a top lad, the lads love him, he fits in with our culture, he fits in how we are.

Reading Chronicle:

"He recognises the situation and is willing to fight. If he’s not starting, he’s cheering the lads on, he’s an absolute pro. I don’t think people actually see that in him. For our lads, in the changing room, he’s absolutely brilliant. Hopefully we can keep him until the end of the season."