READING midfielder Brian Howard admits he is unsure whether a potential loan switch to Saints will be worked out.

As revealed by the Daily Echo earlier this week, and confirmed by Royals boss Brian McDermott today, Saints manger Nigel Adkins has enquired about the 28-year-old.

Former Saints trainee Howard is waiting to hear exactly what sort of an offer Saints are willing to table.

But the Winchester-born player is keen to discuss a switch if a deal can be worked out.

If Howard does move, it is understood he would like to explore the possibility of a permanent deal in the summer should Saints get promoted.

“It is my hometown club, but it’s a difficult decision as I don’t know what the exact offer on the table is right now,” he said.

“So I’m not really able to make a decision yet. If the interest is still there then I will talk to them.

“There are clubs in the Championship interested in me, but at the same time it’s in Saints’ hands to get promoted.”

Howard, who has made 22 appearances for Royals this season, was hoping to sit down with McDermott after training yesterday to discuss his options.

“This is the first season in my career when I haven’t really been involved,” he said.

“Reading is a great club and I still feel I have a lot to offer. But if the manager wants to clear out some space, then I really don’t have much choice but to look away.

“I don’t think the manager is keen on loaning anyone out. I’m sure he wants everyone until the end of the season. But he’s an understanding man and we have a good relationship.”

For more on Brian Howard's potential move to Saints, as well as a full preview of tomorrow's match against Sheffield Wednesday, see today's Daily Echo.