Kitson returns to Reading on loan

Kitson started 10 Premier League games for Stoke without scoring

Stoke City's record signing Dave Kitson has gone back to Championship side Reading on loan until the end of the season, reports BBC Radio Stoke.

The 29-year-old striker signed for City for £5.5m in the summer, but has failed to find the net for the Potters in 18 appearances for the club.

"Dave needs to play and start scoring goals," said Stoke manager Tony Pulis.

"It's been disappointing for both sides, for us and Dave, but this is a good opportunity for him."

The move could become a permanent one if the Royals are promoted back to the Premier League this season.

They are currently in third place with two games in hand on leaders Wolves.

Stoke beat a number of other top-flight clubs to the signature of Kitson in July following Reading's relegation from the Premier League last season.

But rumours began circulating as early as October that the forward, who netted 54 times for Reading in 121 starts, was unsettled with life in the region.

The former Cambridge man only started 10 games in a season which has seen the Potters embroiled in a relegation battle.

606: DEBATE If he rediscovers his form and manages to get Reading up, I doubt Pulis will let him go neo_dave

"When I bought Kits I thought he was going to be a top player for us, but sometimes it doesn't work out," said Pulis.

"He had family problems and that certainly hasn't helped the situation, but it would be lovely if he goes to Reading and scores a few goals."