Leroy Lita Bio Send To Friend  

An English U-21 international footballer, Lita has shown a goalscoring touch since he signed for Reading from Bristol City for a club record £1 million in 2005.

He had been the League One club's top scorer and showed a great deal of potential, which could only be fulfilled with a move to a bigger club.

Lita's potential was confirmed when he hit a hat-trick against West Bromwich Albion in the 3rd round of the FA Cup on 17 January 2006.

Sadly, Lita's 2005/06 season ended early after a broken ankle, but Reading still won promotion to the Premier League that season.

Despite a promising start to life in the Premiership, in which Lita netted the winner against Middlesbrough on the opening day, Lita endured a barren run and lost his place in the Reading first team.

In August 2006 Lita was arrested on suspicion of causing GBH on a night out, but on 18 September 2006 the complaint was withdrawn and police confirmed that no further action would be taken.

The controversy continued, however, as Lita was banned for allegedly headbutting Talal El Karkouri of Charlton Athletic in April 2007. He went on to score 14 goals in 26 appearances.

Lita rejected the chance to play for DR Congo in favour of pursuing an international career with England, despite having previously stated he wished to represent the country of his birth.

He made his debut for the England U-21 side against Holland in February 2005 and impressed, although he would not play again for another year.

Having netted twice in his first three games, Lita was awarded with a place in the European U21 Championship squad, despite being 22.

It was a mixed tournament for a player who missed a penalty, an open goal and yet managed to score in three of their four games. Undoubtedly he has class, but his temperament may hinder his development.